STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Encounter at Farpoint" by D.C. Fontana and Gene Roddenberry This script is not for publicaion or reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of the same. If lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department. FINAL DRAFT April 13, 1987 TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - STARSHIP (OPTICAL) The U.S.S. Enterprise NCC 1701-D traveling at warp speed through space. PICARD V.O. Captain's log, stardate 42353.7. Our destination is planet Cygnus IV, beyond which lies the great unexplored mass of the galaxy. 2 OTHER INTRODUCTORY ANGLES (OPTICAL) on the gigantic new Enterprise NCC 1701-D. PICARD V.O. My orders are to examine Farpoint, a starbase built there by the inhabitants of that world. Meanwhile ... 3 INT. ENGINE ROOM Huge, with a giant wall diagram showing the immensity of this Galaxy Class starship. PICARD V.O. (continuing) ... I am becoming better acquainted with my new command, this Galaxy Class U.S.S. Enterprise. 4 CLOSER ON VESSEL DIAGRAM Showing the details and size of this enormous starship. PICARD V.O. I am still somewhat in awe of its size and complexity. 5 INT. LOUNGE DECK With its huge windows revealing the immense span of the Starship's outer surface. 5 CONTINUED: PICARD V.O. (continuing) ... my crew we are short in several key positions, most notably ... 6 INT. BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE PICARD, TROI, and DATA seated in the command area. Starfleet LIEUTENANT WORF, a young Klingon, is at the "Ops" station and a SUPERNUMERARY is at "Conn". PICARD V.O. (continuing) ... a first officer, but I am informed that a highly experienced man, one Commander William Riker, will be waiting to join our ship when we reach our Cygnus IV destination. 7 ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD AND DATA As Picard turns to Data: PICARD You will agree, Data, that Starfleet's instructions are difficult? DATA Difficult ... how so? Simply solve the mystery of Farpoint Station. PICARD (smiles) As simple as that. TROI Farpoint Station. Even the name sounds mysterious. PICARD The problem, Data, is that another life form built that base. How do I negotiate a friendly agreement for Starfleet to use it while at the same time snoop around finding how and why they built it? 7 CONTINUED: DATA Inquiry ... the word snoop ... ? PICARD Data, how can you be programmed as a virtual encyclopedia of human information without knowing a simple word like snoop? DATA Possibility ... a kind of human behavior I was not designed to emulate? It is all Troi can do to keep from smiling. PICARD It means 'to spy, to sneak' ... DATA (interrupting; delighted) Ah! To seek covertly, to go stealthily, to slink, slither ... PICARD (wanting to cut it off) Exactly, yes ... DATA ... to glide, creep, skulk, pussyfoot, gumshoe ... Data trails off his words, finally becoming aware of the annoyance registering on Picard's face. Troi cannot keep back the smile now ... then suddenly her face is contorted in pain. TROI Captain ... I'm sensing a ... a powerful mind ... Interrupted by the sound of a BRIDGE ALARM. 8 WIDER ANGLE All checking their consoles, puzzled at readings they're getting. WORF Something strange on the detector circuits ... 8 CONTINUED: OVERLAPPED by an ever more compelling SECOND BRIDGE ALARM (similar to the old naval HONKING SOUND) begins to sound. At the same time, the main viewer FLICKERS and an unusual SHINING, SPARKLING GRID SHAPE APPEARS stretching across the whole of the galaxy ahead of them. 9 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND GRID (OPTICAL) Emphasizing the incredibly SHINING GRID which the Enterprise is approaching. Seeming impossibly large, yet in some ways as delicate as a spiderweb, it is composed of interlocking geometrical shapes. 10 INT. BRIDGE - VARIOUS ANGLES Data is looking up from his command position console, showing as much alarm as we'll ever see on his face. DATA It registers as solid, Captain... TROI Or an incredibly powerful forcefield. But if we collide with either ... PICARD (to Conn) Go to Condition Yellow. And shut off that damned noise. Conn turns OFF honking sound. Picard is taking time to check all readings but we're now coming very close to the strange grid. WORF Shields and deflectors, up, sir. Milking the drama of approaching collision. Then, conversationally: PICARD Reverse power, full stop. CONN Controls to full stop, sir. The strange shimmering GRID on the viewer is now very close to us as Enterprise movement stops. CONN Now reading full stop, sir. 10 CONTINUED: Overlapped by something akin to a ROLLING THUNDER STORM accompanied by a BRILLIANT AND SUSTAINED FLASH OF LIGHT ON THE BRIDGE to the side of Picard. The light burst physically shakes all bridge crew for an instant, then RESOLVES ITSELF INTO A HUMAN SIZE FIGURE standing at that point on the bridge. As the bridge crew's eyes adjust, it does indeed appear to be a human ... but one dressed and posturing as an Elizabethan era sea captain complete with Sir Walter Raleigh type "court dress", complete with neck ruffles, lace, leg stockings, ceremonial sword, etc. Now and later, we shall know this life form as "Q". 11 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) as "Q" (Elizabethan) makes a formal bow (of that same era) to Picard. At which the turbolift doors snap open and TWO SECURITY CREW members start to ENTER, led by Security and Weapons Officer NATASHA YAR. However, "Q" merely gives a nod in that direction and a miniature of the space grid outside APPEARS AT THE TURBOLIFT ENTRANCE, barring the security team's entrance and CLOSES THE TURBOLIFT DOORS. Then "Q" turns toward Picard. "Q" (ELIZABETHAN) You are notified that your kind has infiltrated the galaxy too far already. You are directed to return to your own solar system immediately. 12 ANGLE TO INCLUDE OPS AND CONN We will see Conn stealthily, carefully reaching to the small phaser on his belt. PICARD That's quite a directive. Would you mind identifying what you are? "Q" (ELIZABETHAN) We call ourselves "the Q". Or you may call me that; it's all much the same thing. (indicating costume) And I have presented myself to you as a fellow ship captain so that you will better understand me. (indicates) Go back from where you... 13 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) Interrupted by Conn drawing his phaser. But "Q" barely nods toward Conn at which a FLUTTERING ELECTRIC BLUE WAVE envelopes that bridge crewman, and we HEAR THE BRIEF BEGINNINGS OF A SCREAM as Conn falls with the SOUND of a frozen hard object striking the deck. Picard comes to his feet, ignoring "Q" as: "Q" (ELIZABETHAN) Stay where you are! 14 EMPHASIZING PICARD Who is clearly very angry as he kneels at the prone form of Conn who appears to have been instantly frozen solid. Troi hurries INTO SHOT kneeling too. There is even white evaporation vapor rising up from the body. PICARD Data, call medics! TROI He's frozen. Can you feel the cold? Picard grabs up Conn's phaser from the deck (reversing it, wisely), stands and puts it under "Q's" nose. PICARD He would not have injured you! (indicates phaser) Do you understand this; the stun setting? "Q" (ELIZABETHAN) Knowing humans as you do, Captain, would you want to be captured helpless by them? (moves closer) Now, go back or you will certainly die! FADE OUT: PART ONE FADE IN: 15 EXT. U.S.S. ENTERPRISE AND GRID (OPTICAL) Appropriate THEME MUSIC with spaceship hanging motionless, still facing the mysterious SHIMMERING GRID that stretches in front of it from galaxy horizon to horizon. 16 INTO. BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING CONN'S FORM In the b.g. on a floating stretcher Conn is being taken to the turbolift, advanced medical emergency aids are attached to his body. PICARD Is he still alive? MEDIC For now. We'll do our best, sir. 17 EMPHASIZING "Q" (OPTICAL) Ignoring the previous, intent instead on inspecting his Elizabethan costume as Picard comes up to him. "Q" (ELIZABETHAN) Your little centuries go by so rapidly, Captain. Perhaps you'll understand this better. The Visitor moves his hand slightly. We hear the same ROLLING THUNDER SOUND. Another BLINDING LIGHT FLASH and his body remains the same humanoid face and figure as with the Elizabethan dress, but now the green officer's uniform of the U.S. Marine Corps. Over his jacket pocket three rows of medals and his narrow garrison cap shows the bars of a Captain. "Q" (MARINE CAPTAIN) Actually, the issue at stake is patriotism. You must return to your world and put an end to the communists. All it takes is a few good men. PICARD What? That nonsense is centuries behind us! 17 CONTINUED: "Q" (MARINE CAPTAIN) But you can't deny Captain, that you're still a dangerous, savage child-race. PICARD Most certainly I deny it. I agree that we still were when ... (indicating) ... humans wore costumes like that four hundred years ago... "Q" (MARINE CAPTAIN) At which time you slaughtered millions in silly arguments about how to divide the resources of your little world. And four hundred years before that you were murdering each other in quarrels over tribal god-images. And since there have been no indications that humans will ever change ..... PICARD But even as far back as... ! (indicates) ... that costume, we had begun to make rapid progress. "Q" (MARINE CAPTAIN) Oh? Shall we review your "rapid progress"? 18 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) The "Q" visitor moves a hand again to create THE SAME SOUNDS and the SAME BLINDING FLASH, producing the same human image but this time unshaven and with an UGLY AUTOMATION LOOK AND IN THE UNIFORM OF A MILITARY OFFICER FROM THE MID 21st CENTURY WARS. Q's voice sounds a bit drugged now as he eyes his new costume. "Q" (21ST CENTURY) (interrupting) Rapid progress to where humans learned to control their military with drugs. 19 ANGLE INCLUDING OPS POSITION As Worf gets a message and turns toward Picard. 19 CONTINUED: WORF Sir, sickbay reports that Lieutenant Graham's condition is better. All have turned toward Worf, showing relief. "Q" (21ST CENTURY) Concern for one's comrade. How touching. WORF (indicates "Q") And now, sir, a personal request. Permission to clean up the bridge? Picard shakes head, stares Worf down when he seems about to protest. Meanwhile Tasha has come to her feet too: TASHA Lieutenant Worf is right, sir. As Security Chief I can't just stand here and .... PICARD Yes, you can, Tasha. During this, "Q" has withdrawn a slender tube attached to his 21st Century uniform, makes an adjustment which lets a round pill roll into his mouth and bites down on it with a "POP" SOUND. "Q" (21ST CENTURY) Ah, yes... better! (deep breath, feeling it) Then later, on finally reaching deep space, humans of course found enemies to fight out there too. And to broaden those struggles.... (indicating Worf and Tasha) .... you again found allies to permit still more murdering and all over again the same old story. 19 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD (interrupting; angry) No! The most dangerous 'same old story' is the one we're meeting now! Those who go on misinformation, half-information, self-righteous life forms who are eager not to learn but to prosecute, to judge anything they don't understand or can't tolerate. "Q" (21ST CENTURY) What an interesting idea. Prosecute and judge? CAMERA CENTERS ON "Q" as he absorbs what Picard has said. He takes a step or two, turns. "Q" (21ST CENTURY) (continuing) And suppose it turns out we understand you humans only too well? PICARD We've no fear of what the true facts about us will reveal. "Q" (21ST CENTURY) The facts about you? Splendid, splendid! You are a veritable fountain of good ideas. (smiling; pleasant) There are preparations to make, Captain, but when I return... "Q" gives a 21st Century salute to Picard. "Q" (21ST CENTURY) (continuing) ... we will proceed exactly as you suggest! A BLINDING FLASH OF LIGHT and the alien visitor is gone. 20 WIDE ANGLE ON BRIDGE It takes a moment to accept the fact "Q" is really gone then Worf turns to Picard. 20 CONTINUED: WORF Sir... respectfully submit our only choice is to fight. If we Klingons understand anything, it is the meaning of that kind of talk. TASHA My sentiments too, sir. Fight or try to escape. 21 ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD Turning to Troi: PICARD Sense anything, Commander? TROI (shakes head) Its mind is much too powerful, sir. And frightening. Concur we avoid further contact if possible! 22 ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD Clearly he has to come up with something. He reflects for a moment more, then makes up his mind, turns to Troi. PICARD From this point, no station aboard, repeat no station, for any reason will make use of signals, transmission or intercom. (crossing quickly to Ops and Conn) We'll try to take them by surprise. (to Worf) Inform engineering to make ready for maximum acceleration. We'll find out what this Galaxy Class can do. WORF Aye, sir. As Worf stands and hurries off, Picard turns to Data. 22 CONTINUED: PICARD Records search, Data. Results of detaching the Saucer Section at high warp speeds. Data quickly draws on his memory. DATA Inadvisable at any warp speed, sir. PICARD Search theoretical. DATA (thinking; then) It is possible, sir. But absolutely no error margin. Picard nods and stands, RAISES VOICE: PICARD Attention bridge crew! 23 VARIOUS ANGLES Picard waits until all are turned toward him. PICARD (continuing) Using print-out only, notify all decks to prepare for maximum acceleration. Maximum, you're entitled to know, means we'll be pushing our engines well past safety limits. Our hope is to surprise whatever that is out there, try to outrun it. (looks around, then) Our only other option would be to put tail between our legs and return to Earth as they demand. 24 INT. ENGINE ROOM - TRAVELING WITH WORF As he takes us into WIDE CAMERA ANGLE, aiming both for a feeling of the starship's huge size and enormous power. 25 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) Worf nodding at a reading which an Engineer shows him, then EXITING to return to the bridge. Meanwhile, engineering personnel work at their controls and a LOW PITCHED WHINE quickly works itself up into a DEAFENING HIGH PITCHED SHRIEK while ENERGY DISPLAYS APPEAR AT MAIN ENGINE CONNECTIONS. 26 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) Showing both the Enterprise and the mysterious grid. 27 INT. BRIDGE - ANGLES INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER Worf enters bridge from turbolift, crossing to his position. WORF Engine room ready, sir. Picard stands behind Data who is at the Conn position. TROI The board shows 'green', Captain. All go! Picard moving back to his command position as: PICARD Stand by... (takes his seat, checks bridge, then) ENGAGE! The entire bridge SHUDDERS under a SCREAM OF POWER as we CUT TO: 28 EXT. SPACE - ANGLE ON ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Suddenly into maximum warp, the energy release momentarily DISTORTING BOTH THE ALIEN GRID AND THE STARS IN SIGHT AROUND IT. When the EFFECT is over, the starship has turned, seeming to almost brush against the mysterious grid, and is then racing away from it. 29 ANGLE EMPHASIZING GRID (OPTICAL) With Enterprise in b.g. at warp speed, escaping. Then the 'grid' suddenly shrinks in size, growing brighter as it coalesces together INTO THE SHAPE OF A BRIGHTLY COLORED SPINNING SHAPE which now races after the Enterprise. 30 INT. BRIDGE - VARIOUS ANGLES The faces of the bridge crew reflect the fact that Enterprise is at very high warp speed and continuing to accelerate into even higher warp. WORF Velocity warp nine point two. DATA Heading, 351 Mark 11, sir. PICARD Steady on that. TASHA The hostile is now giving chase, sir. Accelerating fast. WORF We're now at Warp nine point three, sir. Which takes us past the red line, sir. PICARD Continue accelerating. (to Troi) Counselor, at this point I'm open even to guesses about what we've just met. TROI (considers, then) It... it felt like something beyond what we'd consider a 'life form'. PICARD 'Beyond'? TROI Very, very advanced, sir. Or... (considers) Or certainly, very, very different! 30 CONTINUED: WORF (with emphasis now) Sir, we're at warp nine point four. TASHA Hostile is now beginning to overtake us, sir. PICARD Are you sure? DATA Hostile's velocity is already warp nine point six, sir. Shall I put them on main viewer? PICARD (nods) Reverse angle on viewer. 31 ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER VIEWER IMAGE SHIMMERS into reverse view, which is much the same as the forward view except for ONE BLINKING POINT OF LIGHT AT IMAGE CENTER. DATA Magnifying viewer image. ANOTHER VIEWER SHIMMER with the CENTER POINT OF LIGHT BECOMING THE SPINNING COALESCENCE seen earlier. It's still far away, tiny in size, but will grow in size during later SCENES. 32 VARIOUS ANGLES as needed. TASHA Hostile's velocity now at nine point seven, sir. PICARD Ops, inform Engineering we need more! DATA Engine room attempting to comply, sir. But they caution us... 32 CONTINUED: PICARD (interrupting; to Data) Go to yellow alert! Data hits a control and the Yellow Alert ALARM SOUNDS FIVE TIMES. Then Picard turns to Tasha. PICARD (to Tasha) Arm photon torpedoes, Weapons Station. Place them on ready status. TASHA Torpedoes to ready, sir. Picard is aware of the concerned glances received form Troi and Data. 33 WIDE ANGLE The entire bridge suddenly SHUDDERS HARD and it brings startled looks to the faces of some of the bridge crew. Then the motion eases. WORF That was a design tremor, sir. A warning. TASHA Hostile now at warp nine point eight, sir. WORF Our velocity is only nine point five, sir. DATA Projection, sir. We may be able to match the hostile's nine point eight, sir. But at extreme risk. TASHA Now reading the hostile at warp nine point nine, sir. Picard stands, raising his voice to carry throughout the bridge. 33 CONTINUED: PICARD Attention bridge. Print-out message, urgent, to all decks. (selecting the right words) All stations on all decks, make ready to detach ship's saucer section. Some of the bridge crew is startled but all are soon putting their consoles in order for the move. Picard turns to Worf at 'conn' position. PICARD (continuing) You will command the saucer section, Lieutenant. Worf comes to his feet in protest. WORF I am a Klingon, sir. For me to seek escape while my captain goes into battle.... PICARD (interrupts hard) You are a Starfleet officer, Lieutenant. WORF (hesitates, takes seat) Aye, sir. PICARD (to bridge again) Note in ship's log that at this startime, I am transferring command to the Battle Bridge. (to Data) Make the signal, Data. Data touches a control and we HEAR (still preserved from surface ship days) the BUGLE CALL "BEAT TO QUARTERS" which continues REPEATING as all bridge crew members (except Worf) begin leaving their posts. While SUPERNUMERARIES arrive on the turbolifts, our bridge crew begins exiting the bridge. FADE OUT. PART TWO FADE IN: 34 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Still at high warp. We cannot see the image of the following "hostile" (which is not magnified in this ANGLE). PICARD V.O. Captain's log, stardate 42354.1. Preparing to detach saucer section. 35 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE As the turbolift doors snap open, Picard and the others ENTER the smaller, sparse and functional Battle Bridge. PICARD V.O. ... so that families and the majority of the ship's company... 36 INT. MONTAGE OF SAUCER SETS Families, children, science technicians, etc., moving into safe areas. PICARD V.O. (continuing) ... can seek relative safety while our vessel's stardrive, containing our Battle Bridge... 37 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE - VARIOUS ANGLES Acquainting us with the smaller and more severe battle bridge, its configuration and positions. Picard is speaking the balance of his log entry to the microphone at his command position. PICARD (continuing) ... and main armaments, will turn back and confront the mystery that is threatening us. (turning to Tasha) Lieutenant, your torpedoes must detonate close enough to the hostile to blind it at the moment we separate. 37 CONTINUED: TASHA Understood, sir. PICARD Worf, this is the Captain.... 38 INT. BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING LT. WORF The young Klingon at the Captain's command station now. WORF Yes Captain? PICARD'S INTERCOM VOICE Begin countdown.... (touches panel control) Mark! 39 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Traveling through space for a moment, then photon torpedoes blasting out of the starship's aft tubes. The torpedo pattern disappears into the distance behind the vessel. 40 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE All intent on what is happening as: TROI All decks acknowledging, sir. DATA Starship separation.... six, five, four, three, two, one.... 41 EXT. ENTERPRISE - ANGLES ON SEPARATION MECHANISM (OPTICAL)) As we see the largest of the assemblies begin to move, yawning open. Other mechanisms are doing their jobs too.... and THE MONOLITHIC STARSHIP DIVIDES INTO ITS TWO SECTIONS.... STARDRIVE AND SAUCER MOVING APART. PICARD V.O. Ship's log, exact moment of separation, stardate 42354.22. As the Stardrive Section gets safely clear of the saucer, it begins turning, doubling back to face the "Q" menace. And now in the direction of that threat, we begin to see PHOTON EXPLOSIONS in the far, far distance. 42 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE - INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER On which we see a tiny but SOMEWHAT LARGER IMAGE OF THE HOSTILE VESSEL in front of which the last few PHOTON DETONATIONS HAPPEN AND FADE AWAY. TASHA All torpedoes have detonated, sir. PICARD (to Data) Reverse power and hold this position. DATA (gives a surprised look) Reverse power...decelerating. TROI That will bring them here in just minutes, sir. TASHA Will we make a fight of it, Captain? If we can at least damage their ship.... PICARD (indicating viewer) Lieutenant... are you recommending we fight a life form that can do all those things? (as Tasha hesitates) I'd like to hear your advice. TASHA I... spoke before I thought, sir. We should look for some way to distract them from going after the saucer. DATA All forward motion stopped, sir. PICARD (to Troi) Commander, signal the following in all languages and on all frequencies: we surrender. State that we are not asking for any terms or conditions. TROI Aye, sir. All language forms and frequencies. 43 ANGLE ON MAIN VIEWER Where the IMAGE OF THE HOSTILE is rapidly growing in size. 44 EXT. SPACE - U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) As the HOSTILE IMAGE rushes down on the starship, THE COALESCENT SHAPE OPENING UP INTO SOMETHING LIKE THE SHIMMERING GRID WE'VE SEEN, but now as if to enclose (and perhaps crush) the starship. A FURY OF SOUNDS like CLANKING-SCREAMS OF METAL BEING STRESSED BEYOND ITS LIMITS. 45 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE - VARIOUS ANGLES As the bridge and the entire Stardrive Section is SHAKEN ALMOST ANGRILY as the same CACOPHONY OF CLANKING-SCREAMS continues. All bridge crew cling to their seats until the SHAKING AND SOUNDS REACH A PEAK. As when "Q" first appeared, FLASHES OF LIGHT BLIND US and become: 46 INT. "Q" COURTROOM - EMPHASIZING PICARD, DATA, TROI, TASHA It is an immense courtroom meant to reflect strength and power. (We'll discover that it dates back to the mid-21st Century post-atomic crisis era.) Both decor and legal procedures reflect the time when a desperate humanity, still wounded and bleeding from nuclear war, sought answers to its pain and problems through the merciless strength of a new form of dictatorial government representing neither capitalism nor communism. Our four starship people are in old, ragged and stained uniforms which 'demean' them as criminals. In comparison with the gleaming steel and glass of the rest of the courtroom, the Prisoner's Dock at which our people sit is made of rough-hewn, hard and ugly wooden benches. Suddenly, our Starfleet group is CAUGHT IN A HARSH GLARING SPOTLIGHT. Data, looking around with great curiosity, is the first to speak: DATA Historically intriguing, Captain. Very, very accurate. PICARD (nods) Mid-21st Century, the post-atomic horror.... Interrupted by the SOUND OF A BELL, and CUT TO: 47 ANGLE INCLUDING MANDARIN-BAILIFF Important, the MANDARIN-BAILIFF is not a fun figure. Despite the Asian robe and accent, he is an important authority figure--and his expression and actions underscore this. He caries a slim, portable view screen, the face of which contains scrolled information he will occasionally refer to. Now, as he nods to a Court Functionary who uses an ancient, oriental bell, DOLEFULLY CLANGING to gain attention. MANDARIN-BAILIFF All present, make respectful attention to honored Judge! 48 ANGLE EMPHASIZING SPECTATORS Some still arriving, chattering in excitement, having to be intimidated into silence by a 21st CENTURY SOLDIER, heavily armed. Picard waves in a way indicating Data, Tasha and Troi should not stand. TROI (quietly to Picard) Careful, sir. This is not an illusion or a dream. PICARD But these courts happened in our past.... TROI I don't understand either, but this is real. I can feel that! 49 OTHER ANGLES AS NEEDED A 21st Century MILITARY OFFICER moving to our Starfleet group, leveling his automatic weapon toward them. FUTURE MILITARY OFFICER Get to your feet, criminals! Our people ignore him too. "Mandarin-Bailiff" is CLANGING THE BELL again. Data sees something, indicates: DATA At least we are acquainted with the judge, Captain. 50 ANGLE ON JUDGE The "judge's bench" (an appropriate 21st Century design on Chapman camera-crane) comes floating into the courtroom. Seated in it is "Q" (JUDGE), an arrangement which gives "his Honor" physical access to every part and corner of this courtroom. As he floats serenely over spectators' heads, suddenly there's the RATATATTAT of an automatic weapon. 51 ANGLE INCLUDING MILITARY OFFICER Just completing FIRING a warning burst at the feet of Picard. MILITARY OFFICER (screaming angrily) Attention! On your feet, attention! But Tasha pivoting in fast, taking the weapon and throwing the Officer crashing to the floor. Judge's "bench" (Camera Crane) brings "Q" INTO SCENE fast. "Q" (JUDGE) You are out of order! But he's speaking to the downed military officer, not to Tasha. Which turns out to be a sentence of death -- carried out by a pair of Soldiers who step in, raising their automatic weapons, FIRING at the Officer lying on the floor. Spectators break into APPLAUSE as the Officer slumps and lies unmoving. "Q" (JUDGE) (continuing) The prisoners will not be harmed... (a glance at Picard) Until they are found guilty, of course. Still hovering over the fallen officer, "Q" indicates the body. "Q" (JUDGE) (continuing) Dispose of that. Picard has taken the automatic weapon from Tasha. 51 CONTINUED: PICARD Can we assume you mean this will be a fair trial? "Q" (JUDGE) Yes, absolutely equitable. Picard hands the weapon to "Bailiff". "Q" (JUDGE) swings his "bench" to CENTER FRONT of the courtroom. "Q" (JUDGE) (continuing to Mandarin-bailiff) Proceed. MANDARIN-BAILIFF (refers to his portable viewscreen) Before this gracious court now appear these humans to answer for the multiple and grievous savageries of their species. Judge's "bench" swings "Q" (JUDGE) in literally nose-to-nose with Picard. "Q" (JUDGE) How plead you, criminal? DATA If I may, Captain.... (gets a nod) Objection, your honor. In the year 2016, the new United Nations declared that no Earth citizen could be made to answer for the crimes of their race or forbearers. "Q" (JUDGE) Objection denied! Followed by CLANGING OF BAILIFF'S BELL and CHEERS FROM THE SPECTATORS. 52 ANGLE EMPHASIZING "Q" AND PICARD "Q" (JUDGE) (continuing) This is a court of the year 2049, by which time more 'rapid progress' had caused all 'United Earth' nonsense to be abolished. 52 CONTINUED: At which point Tasha comes to her feet very angry. PICARD Tasha, no... TASHA I must... (to "Q") ... because I grew up on a world that allowed things like this court. And it was people like these that saved me from it. I say that this so-called court should get down on its knees to what Starfleet is, what it represents... 53 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) And "Q" (JUDGE) flies INTO SCENE, gesturing toward Tasha as he did earlier to Conn on the bridge... resulting in the same FLUTTERING ELECTRIC BLUE WAVE THAT ENVELOPES HER. As Tasha goes rigid, frozen, Data supports her, lowers her form gently to the floor as: TROI (shouting to "Q") You barbarian! That girl.... "Q" gestures and the same FLUTTERING ELECTRIC BLUE WAVE ENVELOPS HER TOO. Picard leaps in, keeps her frozen, rigid form from crashing down. MANDARIN-BAILIFF Criminals keep silence! 54 ANGLE ON PICARD bending over Tasha, then to "Q": PICARD You've got a lot to learn about humans if you think you can torture us or frighten us into silence. (to Data) Are they still alive? DATA Uncertain. Lieutenant Graham was when our medics thawed him out. 54 CONTINUED: "Q" (JUDGE) glides in closer on his "bench". "Q" (JUDGE) You will answer the charges! PICARD Or what? Or this, or worse? Or death? I suggest you take a better look at human history. Spectators have begun GRUMBLING over Picard's failure to answer "Q". "Q" (JUDGE) You are charged, criminals. How plead you? PICARD Just a moment ago, you promised "the prisoners will not be harmed." We plead nothing so long as you break your own rules. LOUDER GRUMBLING from the Spectators now. "Q" (JUDGE) I suggest you center your attention on the trial, Captain. It may be your only hope. PICARD And I suggest you now may be having second thoughts about this trial! You're considering that if you conduct it fairly, which was your promise, you may lose. "Q" (JUDGE) (laughs) Lose? PICARD Yes, even though you're judge, and prosecutor.... "Q" (JUDGE) (nods) And jury. 54 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD (considers it; nods) Accepted... so long as you keep to your agreement. (indicates Troi and Tasha) And assaulting prisoners is hardly a fair trial. 55 OPTICAL ANGLE ON "Q" (OPTICAL) Seems to be considering it. Then he looks downward, indicates. "Q" (JUDGE) This is a merciful court. "Q" waves his hand DOWNWARD TO WARD TROI AND TASHA AND A RIPPLE OF LIGHT plays over the two women, UNFREEZING THEM. ANOTHER ANGLE "Q" (JUDGE) The court very disorderly now with some spectators standing on their benches SHOUTING as an annoyed "Q" brings his "bench" up hovering over the heads of everyone. "Q" (JUDGE) (greatly AMPLIFIED) SILENCE! The order is so LOUDLY AMPLIFIED that it comes near to shaking the entire courtroom structure. The spectators bite off their words and sink frightened into their seats. We notice "Q" throwing a glance toward Picard to see if the Captain is properly impressed. Then the "bench" is lowered to allow "Q" to face Picard again. "Q" (JUDGE) (continued) Continuing these proceedings, I must caution you that legal trickery is not permitted. This is a court of fact! 55 CONTINUED: PICARD (same words; same time) ... court of fact! (nods) We humans know our past, even when we're ashamed of it. I recognize this court system as the one which agreed with Shakespeare's suggestion -- "Kill all the lawyers". "Q" (JUDGE) (nods) Which humans did. PICARD Which led to the rule: "Guilty until proven innocent". "Q" (JUDGE) Of course. Bringing the innocent to trial would be unfair. (leaning in; voice amplified) YOU WILL NOW ANSWER TO THE GRIEVOUS SAVAGERY CHARGE AGAINST HUMANITY. PICARD We'll be happy to answer specific charges. "Grievous savagery" could mean anything. "Q" (JUDGE) (interrupting) Obviously it means causing harm to fellow creatures! PICARD Such as you did when you froze a member of our bridge crew? Will you be joining us in the dock here? "Q" (JUDGE) You fool. Are you certain you want a full disclosure of human ugliness? (to Mandarin-Bailiff) So be it! Present the charges. Mandarin-Bailiff refers to his portable view screen, then steps forward and presents it for Picard's examination. 55 CONTINUED: (2) MANDARIN-BAILIFF Criminal, you will read the charges to the court. Picard takes the parchment, glances through some amount of it. Then he looks up. PICARD I see no charges against us, your honor. "Q" (JUDGE) (pounds "bench top") Criminal, you are out of order! Soldiers move in, unslinging automatic weapons, of which the barrels of two of them are now placed against Troi's and Data's heads. FADE OUT. PART THREE FADE IN: 56 INT. "Q" COURTROOM - WIDE ANGLE Action continuing from where it ended. The gun barrels are now pressing even closer to Troi and Data's heads as: "Q" (JUDGE) Soldiers... (indicates guns) ... you will press those triggers if this criminal answers with any word other than "guilty"... 57 CLOSER ANGLE The Soldiers CLICKING FIRING ACTION TO FULL COCK. "Q" turns to Picard. "Q" (JUDGE) Criminal, how plead you? Picard takes his time, looking to his people, the Soldiers holding the guns at their heads, then to "Q". He seems to be taking too much time, and one of them shifts his weight, the other begins grasping his weapon even more firmly. Then: PICARD Guilty... Picard's people can't help but show relief and even the soldiers lighten up their stance and their grip on the weapons, until: PICARD (continuing) ... provisionally so. Surprised by this "add on", the Soldiers begin bringing their guns in close again, looking for guidance to "Q" who looks like he could decide either way. After considering it for a moment: "Q" (JUDGE) The Court will hear the provision. 57 CONTINUED: PICARD We question whether this court is abiding by its own trial instructions. Do I have permission to have Commander Data repeat the record? "Q" (JUDGE) If this is legal trickery... PICARD Your own words, your Honor. (to Data) Exactly what followed his Honor's statement that the prisoner would not be harmed? 58 EMPHASIZING DATA Taking a moment to consult his memory, then: DATA Yes, sir. The Captain has asked the question... (in Picard's VOICE) "Can we assume this will be a fair trial?" (in Data VOICE) And in reply, the judge stated... 59 OTHER ANGLES as Data goes on. DATA (continuing in "Q"'s VOICE) "Yes, absolutely equitable." "Q" (JUDGE) Unacceptable testimony, entirely unacceptable... ! 59 CONTINUED: PICARD If your Honor pleases, there is a simple way to clear up this disagreement. (waits until he has "Q"'s attention) We agree there is evidence to support the court's contention that humans have been murderous and dangerous. (moves in closer to "Q") I say "have been" ... and therefore we will respectfully submit to a test of whether this is presently true of humans. "Q" (JUDGE) (suddenly alert) I see, I see. (an idea forming) And you petition the Court to accept you and your comrades as proof of what humanity has become. PICARD There should be many ways we can be tested. We have a long mission ahead of us... "Q" (JUDGE) Another brilliant suggestion, Captain. But your test hardly requires a 'long mission'. (laughs) Your immediate destination offers more challenge than you can possibly imagine. Yes, yes, this Farpoint station will be an excellent test of human worth. Picard, like the others, is now becoming just a bit concerned. What does lie ahead of them on Farpoint Station? 60 ANGLE INCLUDING MANDARIN-BAILIFF with "Q" nodding to him as the Bailiff stands, raising his voice. MANDARIN-BAILIFF Stand respectfully. All present, respectfully stand! 61 WIDE ANGLE Spectators standing. Picard and his people coming to their feet too. 62 EMPHASIZING "Q" AND PRISONERS (OPTICAL) as "Q" moves his bench into position. "Q" (JUDGE) This trial is adjourned to allow the criminals to be tested. The Mandarin-bailiff LOUDLY CLANGS HIS BELL. MANDARIN-BAILIFF This honorable court is adjourned! There is a smile coming onto the face of "Q" as he turns to Picard. "Q" (JUDGE) Captain, you may find you are not nearly clever enough to deal with what lies ahead for you. It may have been better to accept sentence here. "Q" WAVES TOWARD THEM, PRODUCING THE BLINDING LIGHT EFFECT we've seen before -- and the EFFECT BECOMES: 63 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE Picard and the others now in their normal garb and at their regular stations, all beginning to register their realization of where they now are. 64 ANGLES EMPHASIZING DATA, TROI, AND TASHA Reacting to where they now find themselves. Data turns to the Ops position. DATA Uh... what is present course, Ops? The OPS OFFICER looks at Data, surprised. OPS (to Data) It's exactly what the Captain ordered, sir. Direct heading to Farpoint Station. 64 CONTINUED: Data has reviewed his console readings during this, turns to Picard: DATA Confirm we are on that heading, sir. OPS (to Data) Know anything about Farpoint? It sounds like a fairly dull place. PICARD Actually, Ops, I've heard just the opposite. Picard, Data, Troi and Tasha exchange looks, then settle back. 65 EXT. SPACE - LONG SHOT - PLANET (OPTICAL) moving in on a yellowish ball of a planet glowing against the black backdrop of starry space in the reflected light of its sun. There is some cloud layer. At this distance, the planet's land masses are vague and indistinct. RIKER'S VOICE Personal log, Commander William Riker, Star Date 42354.4, at Farpoint Station. 66 CLOSER - ON THE PLANETS AND THE USS HOOD (OPTICAL) An older class starship (the USS Hood) lies in geosynchronous orbit above the planet. RIKER'S VOICE ... U.S.S. Hood has dropped me off at Farpoint Station where I await the arrival of the new U.S.S. Enterprise... 67 CLOSER - ON THE OLD CITY/STATION (SPEC.FX) AN AERIAL VIEW of the small, obviously old Bandi city connected to the modern sprawling spaceport/station, both set in the middle of a harsh and forbidding landscape. This is Farpoint Station. CAMERA PUSHES IN on the Old City portion. 67 CONTINUED: RIKER'S VOICE ... to which I have been assigned as first officer. Meanwhile... 68 INT. OLD CITY CORRIDOR - PANNING RIKER Commander William T. Riker approaching the door leading to the office at Farpoint's Administrator. RIKER'S VOICE ... I have been asked to visit the office of Farpoint Station's Administrator. 69 INT. ZORN'S OFFICE - OLD CITY - DAY - ANGLE ON RIKER AND ZORN 69 Riker ENTERING, crossing to an elegant, unusually shaped desk where ZORN, the station Groppler (administrator) rises and (unused to handshaking) at first offers the wrong hand, then gets the procedure straightened out with MUMBLED APOLOGIES. As with all the Bandi, Zorn is tall, skinny, rather grey-looking -- appears to be sixtyish (as do all the Bandi, including the young ones.) ZORN I thought you might like to know, Commander Riker, that we've still no word from your vessel. But, I trust we have made your waiting comfortable? RIKER Luxurious is more like it. Would it seem ungrateful if I ask for some information? ZORN Anything! RIKER Fascinating how in the midst of an old city like this, you've built a completely modern tritanium and duraglass space station. Your energy supply must be as abundant as I've heard. 69 CONTINUED: ZORN Geothermal energy is the one great blessing of this planet. I'll have all the details of that sent to your quarters. RIKER Thank you. But it still seems incredible how you've built this station so rapidly and so... so perfectly suited to our needs. Pushes a desk top bowl of fruit toward Riker. ZORN Would your care for an Earth delicacy, Commander? RIKER Well, if there's an apple there... There isn't and we can SEE that this disappoints Zorn. RIKER (looking up; continues) It doesn't matter... what I was saying was... (sees something out of SCENE) Well, I'll be damned! 70 CAMERA PANS RIKER as he steps to the far end of Zorn's desk where ANGLE REVEALS a second bowl of fruit. Riker picks an apple from it. ZORN Ah... ah yes, there was another selection here... RIKER (perplexed) Zorn, I would have sworn it wasn't here a moment ago. ZORN And does your failure to notice it make it unwelcome? (smiles) The same with Farpoint Station, Commander. (MORE) 70 CONTINUED: ZORN (Cont'd) We hope a few easily answered questions about it won't make Starfleet appreciate it less. Riker eyes Zorn thoughtfully, then takes a bite out of the apple. He chews, then: RIKER I'm sure it won't, sir. (raises apple up) And this is delicious. Thank you. (crossing to door) Good morning, Groppler Zorn. He is EXITING even as Zorn levers himself out of his own chair. ZORN Good morning. The door closes behind Riker, and Zorn turns around angrily. ZORN (continuing) You've been told not to do that. Why can't you understand? It will arouse their suspicions. As he speaks, CAMERA ANGLE WIDENS TO REVEAL clearly that there is no one else in the room, nor does he appear to be speaking into any sort of communication device. He seems to be talking to the walls. ZORN (continuing) ... and if that happens, we will have to punish you. We will, I promise you. We must! No reply that we can hear. Is this man mad? CUT TO: 71 INT. FARPOINT FOYER In considerable contrast to Zorn's old city office we just left, this structure has a "starbase" look with its dazzling tritanium and glass construction. The few people in sight are Starfleet personnel. ENTERING FOREGROUND are DR. BEVERLY CRUSHER and her fifteen-year-old son WESLEY. 71 CONTINUED: Like most other humans of this century, she doesn't look her age. Although forty years old, she looks hardly more than thirty. Her attractiveness is underscored by a naturally provocative walk -- the woman can't help it. This is counter-balanced by her quick intelligence and her professional knowledge and skill as a physician. Her son, Wes, has that same quick intelligence, multiplied by four. That lively brain is ensconced in the body of a perfectly normal boy with moderate good looks, a cheerful personality, but with considerable maturity for someone his age. 72 ANOTHER ANGLE Riker ENTERS SCENE behind them and hurries to catch up. He calls: RIKER Doctor Crusher... WESLEY Mother, it's Commander Riker. Beverly slows, lets Riker walk along with them. We see that despite her attractive face and form, she is naturally dignified and a bit reserved with new acquaintances like Riker. RIKER And hello to you, Wesley. Enjoying Farpoint Station? WESLEY (happily) Yes, sir. Riker smiles at the boy. It's clear he approves of this polite and likeable kid. Then he becomes aware that Beverly has not answered his greeting and is waiting. RIKER Saw you and thought I'd join your stroll, if I may. BEVERLY Actually, we're about to do some shopping. Riker throws her a look. Is she rejecting the offer of his company? 72 CONTINUED: RIKER I've been meaning to visit the mall myself. If I'm welcome? BEVERLY Of course. She moves toward an exit door. Wes has been looking from one to the other of them, interested in what they've said... and not said. 73 INT. FARPOINT SHOPPING MALL - DAY The ANGLE suggests a covered, airy mall with flowers and trees -- many of them Earth types but with a scattering of alien vegetation too. It is a spacious walkway with a number of pleasant shops and booths. In b.g. we SEE Bandi natives of this world, a tall and greyish life form, quiet and overly polite. Beverly, Wesley and Riker move down a line of shops. 74 CLOSER - BEVERLY, WESLEY, RIKER as they walk, Wes continuing to eye the two adults. Then: WESLEY If you're wondering about Mom, Mister Riker, she's isn't actually unfriendly. She's just shy around men she doesn't know. Beverly is startled; Riker amused. BEVERLY Wesley... ! (swallows her annoyance; to Riker) I believe that means he would like us to be friends. RIKER (grins) I'm willing, Doctor. (more serious) And although we're not officially part of the Enterprise yet, I thought there might be something useful we could do while we wait. 74 CONTINUED: Beverly stops at a table in front of a shop selling exotic materials. The modest selections of cloth are lined up on the table, some draped for best effect. Beverly looks over them critically, feeling weight and texture. The Bandi SHOPKEEPER has stayed at the rear of the booth. BEVERLY "Useful"? How and what, Commander? RIKER Investigating some things I've noticed here, Doctor. The last was a piece of fruit... Beverly has frowned over a particularly pretty piece of material which she holds up for the shopkeeper to see. BEVERLY Would this be available in emerald green? The Bandi Merchant smiles, nods and takes the bolt of cloth INTO A SMALL CLOSED OFF AREA BEHIND. Wes watches the merchant go as Beverly turns to look at Riker appraisingly. BEVERLY (continuing) I'm sure, Commander, there are reasons for a first officer to want to demonstrate his energy and alertness to a new captain. But since my duty and interests are outside the command structure... The Bandi Merchant comes quickly with the bolt of cloth -- now emerald green -- interrupts Beverly by holding it up for her approval. RIKER Isn't it nice he happened to have the right color? Beverly glances sharply at Riker, suppressing a somewhat chagrined look. 74 CONTINUED: (2) BEVERLY (to Merchant) Thank you. I'll take the entire bolt. Charge it to Beverly Crusher, Chief Medical Officer, USS Enterprise. The Merchant nods, ticks the information off on a flat little gadget that dangles from his belt, hands her the bolt of cloth. 75 ANOTHER ANGLE - DOLLYING WITH BEVERLY, RIKER, WESLEY as they walk away, Riker enjoying the look that's come onto her face over this incident. RIKER Let's see, where were we? BEVERLY I was accusing you of inventing work in order to curry favor with your new captain. I apologize. WESLEY Finding the exact right color took him only about twelve seconds, Mom. They stop a little distance off and look back toward the shop. BEVERLY Maybe this is something Jean-Luc Picard will want looked into. RIKER Jean-Luc? You know Captain Picard? WESLEY (proudly) When I was little, he brought my father's body home to us. Riker is startled but Beverly only smiles, fondly pats her son's head. 75 CONTINUED: BEVERLY Yes, Wes, long, long ago. (to Riker) Shall we continue the walk? I'd like to know you better, Mister Riker. CUT TO: 76 INT. FARPOINT LOUNGE - DAY - ON GEORDI AND MARKHAM LT. GEORDI LaFORGE and ENSIGN SAWYER MARKHAM are in the small, comfortable lounge area. Markham is a likeable young man, enthusiastic, energetic. He is still inclined to shoot from the hip rather than consider before speaking, but he is a capable (and very new) graduate of the Academy. We SEE Geordi at first only from behind, and we may routinely register the fact he is black. MARKHAM Where is she? They say she's never late -- not since the old burrhog took over the captain's chair. RIKER'S VOICE You wouldn't be talking about the Enterprise, would you, Ensign Markham? 77 WIDER ANGLE The two young men turn around sharply to find Riker has come up behind them. The most important thing we notice about Geordi is that he wears a strange flattish device (like futuristic goggles) over his eyes. Although he is technically blind, his head always turns toward the person speaking to him because he can, in fact, see as well or better than anyone through the use of the visual prosthesis. As they realize that Riker is a senior officer, both young men straighten to attention. GEORDI/MARKHAM Sir. Yes, sir. Riker smiles at the ingrained and traditional response of the recent Academy graduate. RIKER You can stand at ease, gentlemen. We're not on the Enterprise yet. 77 CONTINUED: MARKHAM You know we're assigned to her, sir. RIKER (extending his hand) Riker. I'm slated to be First Officer. (they shake hands) I read the service records on all new personnel on the trip out. Excellent academic record at Starfleet Academy, Mister Markham. MARKHAM Thank you, sir. RIKER And you, Mister LaForge. Captain Dreyer praised your performance on the Hood. Why did you request transfer to the Enterprise? GEORDI Who wouldn't, sir? The biggest, newest, fastest starship in the fleet -- RIKER Commanded by the best burrhog in the fleet. Right, Mister Markham? MARKHAM (sheepishly) Yes, sir. RIKER (grins) I've already forgotten who used those words. GEORDI Shouldn't we have heard something from her by now, sir? A BANDI WOMAN approaches: BANDI WOMAN Commander Riker? RIKER Yes? 77 CONTINUED: (2) BANDI WOMAN The Enterprise has been picked up on our monitors, sir. I should tell you, sir, it is only the Stardrive Section. All three crewman are surprised to hear this. RIKER (to Woman) What about the Saucer Module? BANDI WOMAN We've received no explanation, sir. But the captain signals that you're to beam up immediately. GEORDI (to Markham) Our new captain doesn't waste time. RIKER A good rule for all of us to follow, gentlemen. Riker touches his communicator. His VOICE now 'treated' to indicate he is transmitting. (This will be standard communicator format.) RIKER (continuing) Enterprise, this is Commander Riker on Farpoint. Standing by to beam up. TRANSPORTER EFFECT (OPTICAL) FADE OUT. PART FOUR FADE IN: 78 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise stardrive module in orbit of the Farpoint planet. 0 INT. STARDRIVE TRANSPORTER ROOM - ANGLE ON PLATFORM (OPTICCAL) As Riker BEAMS IN. Lieutenant Tasha Yar of Security is there, waiting until Riker is fully materialized, then: TASHA Lieutenant Yar of Security, sir. Captain Picard will see you on the Battle Bridge. Riker was prepared to shake hands but Tasha is already leading the way toward the turbolift. 80 INT. TURBOLIFT As Riker follows her inside, she speaks quietly toward the controls: TASHA Battle bridge. The doors snap closed and the lift moves. Riker looks Tasha over, waiting, then: RIKER With the saucer gone, can I assume something interesting happened on your way here? TASHA I'll let the captain explain, sir. 81 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE - ANGLE ON PICARD He is seated in the command chair with Data and a couple of other crewpersons at their stations. DATA We are cleared into the standard parking orbit, sir. 81 CONTINUED: PICARD (nods) Make it so. The bridge turbolift doors open, Riker ENTERS the bridge after Tasha, follows her to Picard. TASHA Commander Riker, sir. RIKER Riker, W.T., reporting as ordered, sir. Picard takes his time, looking Riker over and then offering his hand. PICARD I really didn't expect to welcome you to half a starship, Riker. (to Tasha) Is the viewer ready? TASHA All set up, sir. PICARD (to Riker) We'll first bring you up to date on a little... "adventure" we had on our way here, Commander. Then we'll talk. TASHA (to Riker) This way, sir. True, Picard does not waste time. Tasha is already leading Riker toward a viewer at the aft section of the Battle Bridge. 82 ANGLE ON AFT VIEWER as Tasha motions Riker to the seat, turns the VIEWER ON. The VIEWER SHOWS A SHOT FROM EARLIER WHEN "Q" (ELIZABETHAN) HAD APPEARED AND IS TALKING TO Picard. The VOICES ARE FAINT and Riker leans in, riveting attention to the bridge record. 83 ANGLE ON PICARD AND DATA as the android officer turns toward the captain. 83 CONTINUED: DATA (interrupting) Message from the Saucer Module. It will arrive here in fifty-one minutes, sir. PICARD Inform them we'll hook up as soon as they arrive. Picard stands, crosses past Tasha on his way to the turbolift. PICARD (to Tasha) Bring him to my Ready Room when he's done there. Picard EXITS via turbolift. 84 ANGLE ON RIKER Where VIEWER SHOWS ANGLE ON THE "Q" GRIDWORK STRETCHES OVER THE HEAVENS, THEN SHOT OF "Q" (21st CENTURY). Riker TURNS AWAY FROM VIEWER TOWARD CAMERA as he looks at the crewpersons on the bridge. He speaks to no one in particular. RIKER He calls that "a little adventure"? 85 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE READY ROOM Picard at a viewer going over a rather complex screen of formulas. A KNOCK at the door, he turns the viewer off. PICARD Come. Riker ENTERS, crosses to where the captain indicates he's to sit. He does so, looking at Picard. Then: RIKER Wow! PICARD (laughs, nods) Exactly. 85 CONTINUED: RIKER This "Q", sir... is he crazy? I mean, seriously? PICARD Seriously, does it really matter how we judge them? We're dealing with something that can juggle starships as if they were pebbles. RIKER It's a rather astonishing "little adventure" you've had, Captain. PICARD (snaps) The issue isn't what we call it, Commander. The important thing is we can be dead certain... accent on dead... that "Q" wasn't joking. We're alive only because we were placed on "probation", a very serious kind of "probation". Over which we have heard a CHIME SOUND. PICARD (continuing) Go. DATA'S VOICE The Saucer Module is now entering orbit with us, sir. PICARD Acknowledged. Commander Riker will conduct a manual docking. Picard out. RIKER Sir? PICARD You've reported in, haven't you? You are qualified? RIKER Yes, sir. PICARD Then I meant now, Mister Riker. Riker jumps to his feet, EXITS. CAMERA PANS to Picard whose expression now relaxes. He's not too unhappy with what he's seen of his new first officer so far. 86 EXT. SPACE - SAUCER SECTION, BATTLE SECTION (OPTICAL) As before, the Saucer Section is above and ahead of the battle section. The battle section is SLOWLY moving ahead toward the Saucer Section for link-up. 87 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE - FULL SHOT Riker at the conn, concentrating. Tasha and Data are studying him, privately evaluating this new man. DATA You say you will be doing this manually, sir? No automation? RIKER As ordered. 88 EMPHASIZING RIKER He's making a couple of calculations, glancing up at the viewscreen. 89 ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The rear end of the saucer is moving closer, but it is still high. 90 EMPHASIZING RIKER RIKER (to Data at Conn) Two percent rise. Up angle adjustment three degrees. Maintain docking speed. Ops and conn positions AD LIB repeats of Riker's orders. 91 EXT. SPACE - SAUCER AND BATTLE SECTION (OPTICAL) The battle section is seen rising, angling forward slightly, still moving slowly toward the saucer. 92 INT. BATTLE BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING RIKER glancing at the O.S. viewscreen, works his console again. RIKER Level her out. Maintain docking speed. Docking crew, prepare for reconnection. 93 EXT. SPACE - ANGLE ON SAUCER AND BATTLE SECTION (OPTICAL) The two are level now, quite close together, the battle section still moving slowly forward. 94 INT. BRIDGE - ANGLE ON RIKER Riker looks up at the viewscreen again. 95 ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The saucer looms in the viewscreen -- everything is level, the docking section is dead ahead -- we are still moving forward. 96 CLOSE ON RIKER He makes a couple of quick entries on his console. RIKER All stop. Her inertia should do the job now. 97 EXT. SPACE - SAUCER AND BATTLE SECTION (OPTICAL) The two glide together smoothly. 98 INT. BRIDGE - WIDE SHOT Riker hits a couple more tabs on his panel as: RIKER Rejoin lock-up... now. 99 EXT. SPACE - FINAL HOOK-UP (OPTICAL) The reverse of disconnecting SHOTS we saw earlier -- huge STARDRIVE SECTION and SAUCER MODULE MECHANISMS MAKING FINAL HOOK-UP. 100 EXT. ENTERPRISE IN ORBIT (OPTICAL) The docking complete. 101 INT. TURBOLIFT Riker with Data, Tasha, and others. The time this takes is indicative of the size of this new Enterprise. 101 CONTINUED: RIKER (V.O.) Enterprise log, First Officer entry. Ship's modules rejoined, stardate 42354.71 with command now transferred back to the main bridge. Riker looks up to see Tasha is watching him. Then: TASHA Neatly done, sir. RIKER I don't imagine many mistakes happen under Captain Picard. TASHA No sir, they don't. 102 INT. BRIDGE As the turbolift arrives. Lt. Worf crosses toward it, intercepts Riker. WORF I'm Lieutenant Worf, sir. Captain Picard requests you come immediately to his quarters. Having had little more than a glance at this main bridge, Riker turns and re-enters the turbolift. 103 INT. PICARD'S CABIN Much larger and more comfortable than the small battle Ready Room we were in earlier. Picard is there, turning as he hears a KNOCK: PICARD Come! Riker ENTERS. PICARD (continuing) A fairly routine maneuver but you handled it quite well. RIKER Thank you, sir. I hope I show some promise. 103 CONTINUED: An exchange of looks between the two. Clearly, Riker is annoyed by this "faint praise" kind of welcome. Picard leads the way to a setting for coffee. PICARD Some coffee. RIKER No thank you, sir. PICARD (pours himself a cup) And now I have a kind of "what sort of second-in-command have I inherited?" question. RIKER Yes sir, I thought you might. There's nothing disrespectful in Riker's tone of voice, but he does leave an impression that he's not to be walked on either. PICARD I noticed in your envelope that Captain DeSoto thinks very highly of you. One curious thing, however, you refused to let him beam down to Altair IV? RIKER In my opinion, sir, Altair IV was too dangerous to risk exposing the captain. PICARD I see. A captain's rank means nothing to you. RIKER Rather the reverse, sir. A captain's life means a great deal to me. PICARD Let me postulate something here, Mister Riker. Isn't it just possible that you don't get to be a starship captain without knowing when it's safe to beam down or not? Isn't it a little presumptuous for a first officer to second guess his captain's judgment? 103 CONTINUED: (2) RIKER Permission to speak candidly, sir? PICARD Always. RIKER You've been a first officer yourself. You know that assuming that responsibility must, by definition, include the safety of the captain. I have no problem with following the rules you lay down. But under no circumstances will I compromise your safety. If you have a problem with that, sir, you can put me back on the Hood before she leaves. PICARD You don't intend to back off that position? RIKER No, sir, I can't. Picard takes another beat to study him carefully, then: PICARD One further thing... a special favor I have to ask of you. RIKER Anything, sir. PICARD Using the same kind of strength you showed with Captain DeSoto, I'd appreciate it if you can keep me from making an ass of myself with children. RIKER Sir? PICARD I'm not a family man, Riker, and yet, Starfleet has given me a ship with children aboard. RIKER (nods) Yes, sir. And families... 103 CONTINUED: (3) PICARD And I don't feel comfortable with children. But, since a captain needs an image of "geniality" toward the little monsters, you're to see that's exactly what I project. RIKER Aye, sir. For the first time, Picard smiles, extending his hand. We see he's surprisingly warm when he wants to be. Riker takes Picard's hand for a firm and friendly handshake. PICARD Welcome to the Enterprise, Mister Riker. 104 INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE as Riker steps out of the turbolift. He stops, takes in the size of his compared to the Battle Bridge. The Klingon Lieutenant is at the conn position. He turns, seeing Riker: WORF Yes sir, Commander? Riker crosses in, shakes hands. RIKER Thank you, Lieutenant. Is Commander Data on duty? WORF Commander Data is on a special assignment, sir. He's using our shuttlecraft to transfer an admiral over to the Hood. RIKER An admiral? WORF He's been aboard all day, sir, checking over medical layout. RIKER Why the shuttlecraft? Can he just beam over? 104 CONTINUED: WORF I suppose he could, sir. But the admiral's a rather remarkable man. 105 INT. ENTERPRISE CORRIDOR - ANGLE AT INTERSECTION DATA'S VOICE But, sir, the transporter could have you on the Hood in a matter of seconds, Admiral. Data and the admiral ENTER SCENE at the intersection. The admiral is very old with an almost transparent look. ADMIRAL Have you got some reason to want my atoms scattered all over space? DATA No sir. But at your age, sir, I thought you shouldn't have to put up with the time and trouble of a shuttlecraft. The admiral stops. Facing Data, he draws himself. up as straight as he can. His voice is crotchety and trembly -- and fiercely stubborn. ADMIRAL My age? Hold it right there, boy, what about my age? DATA Sorry, sir. If that subject troubles you... ADMIRAL Troubles me? What's so damned troubling about not having died? How old do you think I am? DATA One hundred forty-seven years, Admiral. According to Starfleet records. ADMIRAL Explain how you remember that so exactly. DATA I remember every fact I am exposed to, sir. 105 CONTINUED: The admiral peers at him closely, scowling. ADMIRAL I don't see any points on your ears, boy, but you sound like a Vulcan. DATA No, sir. I am an android. ADMIRAL (snorts) Almost as bad. DATA (at a loss, but still respectful) I thought it was generally accepted, sir, that Vulcans are an advanced and most honorable race. The admiral stares at him a moment, his severe blue eyes gentling and his feisty scowl fading. He pats Data's sleeve and nods slightly. ADMIRAL They are, boy. They are. And also damned annoying at times. DATA Yes, sir. As they move away, Data gently assisting the old man: ADMIRAL This is a new ship, boy, but she's got the right name. Remember that. DATA I will, sir. ADMIRAL You treat her like a lady. (beat, quietly) She'll always bring you home... FADE OUT. PART FIVE FADE IN: 106 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) Both the Enterprise and the Hood in orbit close together. CAMERA ANGLE shows how much LARGER the Enterprise is. 107 INT. SICKBAY Beverly is wearing medical "blue" -- or whatever color Science personnel are going to be assigned. She steps toward a LARGE VIEWSCREEN which comes on, showing readouts indicative of the status of the ship's medical facilities. BEVERLY Show me the results of Captain Picard's most recent physical examination. The screen promptly BEGINS TO FLASH UP PRINTED INFORMATION, followed by X-Ray type shots, etc. Beverly studies it for awhile. PICARD'S VOICE Already at work, Doctor? 108 ANOTHER ANGLE As Beverly turns to find Captain Picard ENTERING. She nods in answer to his question. BEVERLY Yes, on a subject that's very important to this mission, Captain. (unhurriedly to computer) Screen off. The screen GOES DARK. PICARD I wanted to say "welcome aboard." 109 CLOSER ANGLE - BEVERLY AND PICARD As if they're appraising each other, then: 109 CONTINUED: BEVERLY Thank you, Captain. PICARD And I thought I should talk to you very personally about your assignment here. 110 CLOSER TWO SHOT As Beverly nods, waits for him to continue. PICARD (continuing) I wanted you to know I protested your posting to the Enterprise. BEVERLY Oh? Do you consider me unqualified? PICARD Hardly. Your service record shows you exactly the kind of CMO I'd want. BEVERLY Then you must object to me personally. Has it to do with our last meeting? PICARD I'm trying to be considerate of your feelings, Doctor Crusher. For you to serve with a commanding officer who would continually remind you of such a terrible personal tragedy... BEVERLY (annoyed; snaps) If I had any objections to serving with you, I wouldn't have requested this assignment, Captain. PICARD You requested this posting? He turns to exit. Beverly stirs, and her next words stop him. 110 CONTINUED: BEVERLY Captain. My feelings about my husband's death will have no effect on the way I serve you, this vessel, or this mission. Picard gives it a moment's thought, extends his hand. PICARD Then, welcome aboard, Doctor. I'm pleased to have you here. Beverly allows only a perfunctory handshake. BEVERLY Thank you. And now, if I can return to my duties... It is clear that Picard wanted to say more but she has neatly blocked any further conversation. PICARD (uncomfortably) Well... as I said, "welcome Aboard". She doesn't respond further and he has no choice but to turn and exit. 111 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND HOOD IN ORBIT (OPTICAL) Again, EMPHASIZING the considerable difference in the sizes of the two starships as we SEE that the USS Hood is PULLING AWAY, LEAVING ORBIT. 112 INT. BRIDGE - ANGLE ON RIKER He is standing before the huge viewscreen. Behind him is the young Klingon, Worf, at the conn position with the rest of the bridge stations only nominally manned. Set in geosynchronous orbit over the planet, the Enterprise requires minimal monitoring at this time. 113 ANGLE ON TURBOLIFT DOORS They OPEN, and Picard steps out onto the bridge. PICARD Have you signaled the Hood, Mister Riker? 113 CONTINUED: RIKER (nods) Your exact message. (in French) Bon voyage mon amie. Aye, sir. 114 ANOTHER ANGLE - TO INCLUDE MAIN VIEWER as Picard smiles and steps toward it. PICARD And what was my answer, computer? MAIN VIEWER FLICKERS, then startles us with an ugly FLASH OF LIGHT that becomes an IMAGE OF "Q" (JUDGE) who is in LIMBO, but looking directly at Picard. His VOICE BOOMS LOUDLY, annoyed in tone: "Q" (JUDGE) DO YOU EXPECT ME TO WAIT PATIENTLY THROUGH ALL THIS NONSENSE? OR DID YOU THINK I WAS GONE? Picard is as startled as Riker. The young Klingon, Worf, comes tumbling out of the conn position, drawing his phaser and placing himself protectively between Picard and the threatening "Q" image. PICARD Do you intend to blast a hole through the viewer, Lieutenant? Worf apologetically puts his phaser away, lets Picard wave him aside. PICARD (continuing) If the purpose of this is to test human worth, your honor, you must let us proceed in a normal human way. "Q" (JUDGE) YOU ARE DILATORY! YOU HAVE TWENTY-FOUR HOURS! ANY FURTHER DELAY AND YOU RISK SUMMARY JUDGEMENT AGAINST YOU, CAPTAIN. A FLASH OF LIGHT and the main viewer returns to an image of the planet below. 115 ANOTHER ANGLE WORF Sorry, sir... RIKER No criticism. You reacted fast... PICARD ... but in a completely useless way. WORF I'll learn to do better, sir. PICARD Of course you will. We've a long voyage ahead of us. Picard dismisses Worf with a flicker of a smile which takes the sting out of what he just said. RIKER (lowers voice) Hope you're right, sir. About the long voyage ahead. Picard looks to main viewer as if checking that "Q" is truly gone. PICARD I hope so too. RIKER What do we do, sir? With them monitoring every move, every word... PICARD S.O.P., Mister Riker. RIKER Standard Operating Procedures? PICARD (nods) We do exactly what we'd do if this "Q" never existed. If we're going to be damned, let's be damned for what we really are. Riker is suddenly very pleased with this captain. He nods emphatically. FADE OUT. PART SIX FADE IN: 116 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) U.S.S. Enterprise in orbit of planet Cygnus IV. PICARD V.O. Captain's log, stardate 42372.5. Of the twenty-four hours "Q" allotted us to prove ourselves... 117 INT. BRIDGE - ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER Minimum bridge crew on duty. PICARD V.O. ... eleven have now passed without incident. And yet I cannot forget "Q's" prediction that we will face here some critical test of human worth. 118 INT. BRIDGE READY ROOM Picard and Riker comparing notes. RIKER This planet's interior heat results in abundant geothermal energy, sir. But it's about all this world does offer. PICARD And it's your belief that this is what made it possible for them to construct this base to Starfleet standards? RIKER Yes sir. We have to assume that they've been trading their surplus energy for the construction materials used here. According to our ship's scans, many of the materials used are not found on this world. 118 CONTINUED: PICARD (smiles) Perhaps it's like those incidents you describe in your report as "almost magical" attempts to please us. RIKER Those events did happen, sir. PICARD And in time we'll discover the explanation. Meanwhile, none of it suggests anything threatening. If only every life form had as much desire to please Starfleet. (stands) Ready to beam down? I'm looking forward to meeting this Groppler Zorn. Picard is leading Riker to the cabin door. RIKER I'm convinced there's more to it than just "pleasing us", sir. PICARD (as they exit) Like something "Q" is doing to trick us? 119 INT. BRIDGE As Picard and Riker enter from the adjoining Ready Room. Troi is just arriving in the turbolift and Picard calls to her. PICARD Over here, Counselor! (to Riker) I've asked her to join us in this meeting. (indicating) May I introduce our new first officer, Commander William Riker. Mister Riker, our ship's counselor, Deanna Troi. 120 TWO SHOT - RIKER AND TROI He's obviously stunned to find her here, although she isn't at all surprised. TROI'S VOICE (carrying her thoughts) Do you remember what I taught you, Izmadi? Can you still sense my thoughts? Then, she holds out her hand formally. TROI A pleasure, Commander. RIKER (nervously) I, ah... likewise, Counselor. 121 ANGLE INCLUDING PICARD Studying the two of them with some curiosity now. PICARD (to Riker) Have the two of you met before? RIKER We... we have, sir. PICARD Excellent. I consider it important that my key officers know each other's abilities. TROI We do, sir; we do. Meanwhile, Picard has indicated the turbolift and is leading them toward it. 122 EMPHASIZING TROI As she looks back toward Riker serenely. TROI'S VOICE (her thoughts) I, too, would never say goodbye, Izmadi. 123 EXT. FARPOINT STATION (OPTICAL) ESTABLISHING SHOT as: PICARD'S VOICE My crew and I need a bit more information... 124 INT. ZORN'S OFFICE Where Zorn sits behind his desk, his posture and attitude indicating some nervousness. Seated facing him are Picard, Riker, and Troi. We see that Zorn's attention is on Troi. PICARD (continuing) ... before we make our recommendations to Starfleet. ZORN No objections to that, but... (eyeing Troi again) ... but I'm puzzled over your bringing a Betazoid to this. If her purpose here is to probe my thoughts, sir... TROI I can sense only strong emotions, Groppler. I am only half Betazoid; my father was a Starfleet officer. ZORN I have nothing to hide, of course. PICARD Good, since we admire what we've seen of your construction techniques. Starfleet may be interested in your constructing starbases elsewhere too. 125 ANGLE EMPHASIZING TROI As her expression begins to indicate an awareness of something distressing, something painful. During which: ZORN Unfortunately, Captain, we are not interested in building other facilities. 126 ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD AND RIKER This stumps Picard for a moment, during which: RIKER If I may, Captain... (gets a nod) Then a trade, Groppler? Some things you need in return for the loan of architects and engineers who can demonstrate your techniques. 127 EMPHASIZING ZORN ZORN We Bandi do not wish to leave our home world. If Starfleet cannot accept that small weakness, then we will be forced, unhappily, to seek an alliance with someone like the Ferengi, or... Zorn interrupted by a small GROAN coming from Troi. Her eyes are now closed over a strong distress she's sensing. 128 VARIOUS OTHER ANGLES As appropriate. PICARD Counselor... ? What is it? TROI (glancing toward Zorn) Do you want it described here, sir? PICARD Yes! No secrets here if we're all to be friends. (to Zorn) Agreed, Groppler? ZORN We ourselves have nothing to hide, but... 128 CONTINUED: TROI (another GROAN, grimacing) Pain... pain, loneliness, terrible loneliness, despair... (indicates Zorn) I'm not sensing him, sir. Or any of his people... but it's something very close to this location. PICARD (to Zorn, demandingly) The source of this? Do you have any idea? ZORN No! (stands) No, absolutely not. And I find nothing helpful or productive in any of this! PICARD (stands, to Zorn) That's it? No other comment? ZORN What do you expect form us? We offer a base designed to your needs, luxurious even by human standards... Riker and Troi come to their feet too as Picard interrupts. PICARD ... while refusing to answer even our simplest questions about it. (to Riker) We'll adjourn for now... (to Zorn) ... while we all reconsider our positions. The three CROSS toward the exit. ZORN Captain, the Ferengi would be very interested in a base like this. PICARD Fine. I hope they find you as tasty as their other past associates. Picard and his people EXIT. 129 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The U.S.S. Enterprise still in orbit over Cygnus IV. 130 INT. HOLODECK CORRIDOR Riker moving as if seeking someone. He intercepts a YOUNG ENSIGN who is passing and the junior officer sees Riker's emblem of rank and snaps to attention. RIKER Ensign, can you help me find Commander Data? I was told he's somewhere on this deck. YOUNG ENSIGN This way, sir. 131 ANGLE AT CORRIDOR WALL As the Ensign steps to a black surface of the corridor wall. YOUNG ENSIGN You must be new to these galaxy class starships, sir. (puts hand on the black surface, saying) Tell me the location of Commander Data. At the touch and the words "Tell me" the black surface comes alive with light patterns showing appropriate information. COMPUTER VOICE Lieutenant Commander Data... now located in Holodeck area 4-J. YOUNG ENSIGN (indicating readout) And as you see, sir, it's pointing you that way. RIKER Go that way? How far? YOUNG ENSIGN (smiles) You'll know, sir. Riker AD LIBS a thanks, goes in the indicated direction. 132 PANNING RIKER Moving off in the indicated direction. Then the black surface there comes alive with a FLASHING DIRECTION SIGNAL. COMPUTER VOICE This way, please. The next hatchway on your right. RIKER (responding automatically) Thank you... COMPUTER VOICE You're more than welcome, Commander Riker. Which startles him a bit but he walks on and turns right at a sophisticated looking Holodeck Hatchway. 133 EXT. PARKLAND The Parkland hidden at this moment by a WILD SECTION OF CORRIDOR WALL AND HATCHWAY which, when the hatch is opened, will REVEAL PARKLAND. COMPUTER VOICE (continuing without delay) And if you care to enter, Commander... RIKER (snaps; interrupting) I do. Immediately, the hatch slides open and we SEE THE PARKLAND (LOCATION). It looks (and is) real, including land contours, trees, and even a small stream nearby. Beyond that the Parkland stretches off for what appears to be miles and miles away to the horizon. 134 ANGLE BACK TOWARD HATCHWAY As Riker ENTERS through it and stands inspecting the Parkland scene with genuine appreciation and then HEARS SOMEONE WHISTLING A MELODY, but doing it rather badly and laboriously. 135 ANGLE PAST RIKER INTO PARKLAND As he MOVES AWAY, seeking the source of the WHISTLING which will begin to grow LOUDER now. 136 ANGLE AT STREAM As Riker crosses, stepping from rock to rock. He makes a misstep, almost falls, then recovers and gets across. He looks back at the stone which caused it. 137 CLOSER ON RIKER As he walks, the WHISTLING is nearby now. He stops, calls: RIKER Hello! The WHISTLING has continued without pause, Riker cocks his ear, corrects his direction slightly. 138 EXT. WOODLAND GLEN Riker ENTERS SHOT through shrubbery, sees something and stops. 139 ANGLE ON DATA Lying there, cushioned by deep grass. He's totally absorbed in certain melody notes he's attempting -- and keeps missing. 140 PANNING RIKER Moving onto TWO SHOT where he stops, and WHISTLES the same melody, hitting the correct notes. A startled Data looks up blankly, then comes quickly to his feet, but Riker waves him back down, sits beside him. DATA Marvelous how easily humans do that, sir. I still need much practice. Riker, acting uncomfortable, avoids the subject. He hesitates, then: RIKER There are some puzzles down on the planet that Captain Picard wants answered. He suggests I put you on the away team I'll be using. 140 CONTINUED: DATA I shall endeavor to give satisfaction, sir. Riker hesitates, wanting to say something but not sure how to begin. RIKER Uh, yes. And when the captain suggested you I, uh, looked up your record... (hesitates) DATA Yes sir, a wise procedure always. RIKER Your rank of lieutenant commander, I assume now must be honorary. DATA No, sir. Starfleet Class of '78; honors in quantum mathematics and exobiology. RIKER But your files... they say you're a... DATA (waits, then) Machine? Correct, sir. Does that trouble you? RIKER (hesitates) To be honest... yes, a little. DATA Understood, sir. Prejudice is very human. RIKER Now that troubles me. Do you consider yourself superior to us? DATA I am superior in many ways. But I would gladly give it up to be human. RIKER (studies Data, then) Nice to meet you, Pinocchio, 140 CONTINUED: (2) Data seems confused by this. RIKER (continuing; explains) A joke. DATA (straight-faced) Ah! Intriguing. RIKER (big grin) You're going to be an interesting companion, Mister Data. FADE OUT. PART SEVEN FADE IN: 141 EXT. PARKLAND - RIKER AND DATA We HEAR A VOICE (Wesley) and Riker gets to his feet, looks off in that direction. DATA This pattern is quite popular, sir. Perhaps because it duplicates Earth so well, Coming here, (apologetically) makes me feel as if I'm human too. RIKER (taking it all in) I didn't believe these could be so real. DATA Much of it is real, sir. If the transporters can convert our bodies to an energy beam, then back to the original pattern again... RIKER Yes, of course. (indicates) And all these have much simpler patterns. 142 EXT. PARKLAND AT STREAM Data leading the way, then indicates. DATA The rear wall. RIKER (peers) I can't see it. DATA You will. PANNING RIKER TOWARD US He's squinting hard now. Then he stops, reacts at something he can now make out. RIKER Incredible! 143 INT. STAGE HOLODECK - ANGLE PAST RIKER (OPTICAL) As he hurries toward where we can now SEE the holodeck wall (REAR PROJECTION SCREEN) on which we can now SEE that the PARKLAND soil, rocks and vegetation blend with the PROJECTED IMAGE there. Astonished, Riker backs away from this, squinting again. 144 EXT. REAL PARKLAND - RIKER'S P.O.V. Where, of course, the wall blend is no longer visible. WESLEY'S VOICE (calling) Mister Riker, isn't this great? MEDIUM ON RIKER Turning, then grinning, waving. RIKER'S P.O.V. - THE ROCK CROSSING AT STREAM Where Wes Crusher is hurrying toward us, bouncing from rock to rock. WESLEY This is one of the simpler patterns, Mister Riker. They've got thousands more, some you just can't believe. ANGLE TO INCLUDE RIKER AND DATA Moving down the stream. RIKER Careful, that next rock is loose... ! WIDER ANGLE As that rock moves underfoot, tumbling Wes into the stream. PANNING DATA IN, demonstrating his enormous strength as he easily lifts Wesley completely out of the water. An amazed Wesley looks at Data. WESLEY Wow! 145 EXT. PARKLAND - ANGLE ON WILD HATCHWAY AND CORRIDOR SECTION As the hatchway smoothly SLIDES OPEN AGAIN. Through it is REVEALED THE PARKLAND, through which Riker, Data and a very wet Wesley make their way to the HATCHWAY. As they MOVE THROUGH HATCHWAY, the bulkhead BEGINS CLOSING. 146 INT. HOLODECK CORRIDOR - ANGLE ON CAPTAIN PICARD The Captain walking with a Senior Officer when he sees Riker and the others. He motions the Senior Officer to continue on by himself, stops and waits. VARIOUS ANGLES - AS APPROPRIATE As Riker, Data and Wes move INTO SHOT with Picard. Wes is instantly aware that his soaked clothing is dripping water onto the starship deck. He'd like to remove himself but knows that Picard has already seen his puddle forming on the deck. RIKER Mister Data has agreed to join my away team, Captain. PICARD (with another glance toward Wes's puddle) Very good. WES Sir, maybe I should get something to wipe this water up. PICARD (coolly) Good idea. Picard turns and EXITS. 147 INT. SICKBAY - BEVERLY AND WESLEY Wesley is wiping himself dry now. He is enthusiastically trying to explain his adventures. WESLEY -- and there's a low gravity gymnasium, too. It would be hard to get bored on this ship. 148 CLOSER TWO SHOT - BEVERLY AND WESLEY As he wipes, he's been turning something over in his mind. WESLEY Mom... (beat) could you get me a look at the bridge? BEVERLY That's against the captain's standing orders. WESLEY Are you afraid of the captain, too? BEVERLY I certainly am not! WESLEY But Captain Picard is a pain, isn't he? BEVERLY Your father liked him very much. Great explorers are often lonely, ... no chance to have a family... WESLEY Just a look, at the bridge, Mom. From the turbolift when the doors open. I wouldn't get off. I promise. BEVERLY You're looking for trouble, Wes. He shuts up. Beverly looks at him and can't ignore the very real want in his eyes. BEVERLY (continuing) Let's see what we can do. On Wes's delighted grin: CUT TO: 149 EXT. FARPOINT STATION/CITY - DAY - EMPHASIZING STATION TO ESTABLISH our location. 150 INT. STATION SHOPPING AREA - DAY - ON AWAY TEAM Which is made up of Riker, Data, Troi, Tasha and Geordi. There are a number of people in the mall area, some in identifiable Enterprise-type uniforms. The others are in various civilian clothes. They are taking in the Bandi shops, booths, food and drink offered by Bandi vendors. TASHA Recommend that someone could begin by examining the underside of the station, sir. TROI Our sensors do show some passages down there, sir. Perhaps you and I? Troi glances at Riker with just a shade of archness, perhaps the lift of an eyebrow. Riker glances away, troubled. RIKER Tasha, you and the Counselor. Troi and Tasha move off. Riker turns to Geordi. RIKER Let's us start with the topside. Have you noticed anything unusual? Riker and the others move out of scene, examining everything they pass. DISSOLVE TO: 151 INT. ANOTHER STATION AREA ON GEORDI as he looks around the area, moving slowly and carefully scanning. Then he shakes his head. GEORDI Well, I can't see through solid matter, sir, but the material so far looks very ordinary. DATA Confirmed by the construction records, sir. Almost exactly the same material that Starfleet uses. Riker reaches to his insignia, to switch on his communicator. 151 CONTINUED: RIKER Riker to Tasha, Troi, come in! We milk the next few moments, Riker growing apprehensive. Then, finally, with Riker showing relief: TASHA'S VOICE (from communicator) We were about to call you, Team Leader. We've found something interesting. 152 INT. UNDERGROUND PASSAGEWAY Not at all what one would expect of a "service tunnel", if this is indeed that. These are smooth, rounded, glistening walls whose GLOW lights up the entire passageway. (We'll see something similar later on a mystery vessel). Tasha is activating her communicator. TASHA We're in a passageway directly under the station sir. But the tunnel walls here are make from something we've never seen before. RIKER'S VOICE And Troi, have you sensed anything there? Troi appears reluctant as she activates her communicator. TROI Sir, I've avoided opening my mind. Whatever I sensed in the Groppler's office became very painful. RIKER I'm sorry, Counselor, but you must. We need more information. Troi complies... then her face contorts in agony and a SMALL SCREAM ESCAPES. She sinks to her knees, Tasha hurrying in to support her. TROI (continuing) No, no, such pain. It's so close to us here... pain, pain.. 152 CONTINUED: RIKER'S VOICE (overlapping) Hang on, I'm coming... Enterprise, lock us onto her signal! Tasha has her arm around Troi, whispering words of comfort. 153 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) After a moment, the familiar TRANSPORTER SOUND BEGINS. Riker, Data, and Geordi BEAM IN, SOLIDIFY. Then Riker hurries over to Troi while Data and Geordi examine their surroundings with great curiosity. 154 ANGLE ON TROI Riker helping her very tenderly: RIKER I'm sorry. Close your mind from the pain... TROI It's also unhappiness... terrible despair... RIKER Who? TROI I don't know! No lifeform anything like us. Riker is looking around at the glowing walls. RIKER What in the hell kind of place is this? (turning) Geordi, what do you see? Geordi has been inspecting the wall closely. He shakes his head. GEORDI It's of no material I recognize, sir. Or have even heard of. 155 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) As before, in geosynchronous orbit. 156 INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - ANGLE ON PICARD in the captain's chair. The bridge is nominally manned at this time. We will see Worf at the ops panel. Picard glances around as the SOUND OF THE TURBOLIFT DOORS OPENING COMES OVER, and he freezes. 157 PICARD'S P.O.V. - BEVERLY AND WESLEY standing just inside the turbolift door. Beverly is uncomfortable; Wes is all eyes, taking in as much as he possibly can in this one limited look at his dream place. Beverly starts to step out, gesturing to Wes to stay in the turbolift. BEVERLY Permission to report to the captain... 158 WIDER ANGLE - INCLUDING PICARD, BEVERLY PICARD (coolly) Children are not allowed on the bridge, Doctor. BEVERLY Captain, my son is not on the bridge. He merely accompanied me on the turbolift. PICARD Your son? BEVERLY His name's Wesley. You last saw him years ago when... She trails her words; Picard understands. PICARD Oh, back then. He glances from Beverly to Wesley, clears his throat. PICARD (continuing) Well -- as long as he's here... 159 WIDER - INCLUDING WESLEY, BEVERLY, PICARD Wesley looks to Picard hopefully. Beverly waits, then Picard shrugs, tries to sound friendly. 159 CONTINUED: PICARD I knew your father, Wesley. Want a look around? Wesley is out like a shot. PICARD (continuing; quickly) But don't touch anything! Wes is in awe. To him, this is the equivalent of a devout Catholic stepping into the nave of St. Peter's Basilica. The turbolift is on the level of the "horseshoe", so the command positions are spread below him. Picard moves down to the captain's chair level, Wes moving with him. He is careful to put his feet down just right so he doesn't even scuff the floor. Picard watches, steps aside to gesture toward the command chair. PICARD (continuing) Try it out. (as Wes does so) The panel on your right is for log entries, library-computer access and retrieval, viewscreen control, intercoms, and so on. WESLEY (nodding; pointing) Yes sir. And here, the backup conn and ops panels, plus armament and shield controls. Picard looks closely at Wes, perplexed. PICARD The forward viewscreen is controlled by the ops position... WESLEY Yes sir, which uses high resolution, multi-spectral imaging sensor systems... PICARD How the hell do you know that, boy? Before Beverly or Wes can reply, a VERY DISTINCTIVE SIGNAL SOUNDS (Captain's comm signal) and Wes, closest to the control, transfers the signal into audio as: 159 CONTINUED: (2) WES Perimeter alert, Captain! Wesley is instantly embarrassed; Beverly is mortified; Picard is ang7ry. WES BEVERLY I'm sorry. I didn't mean Wes! You shouldn't to... have touched anything... PICARD Off the bridge! Both of you. Worf has come to his feet, not sure whether or not he should respond to the call. Beverly is hustling Wesley toward the turbolift. WORF You have a perimeter alert, Captain. BEVERLY (to Picard) As my son tried to tell you! She EXITS into the turbolift, the doors CLOSING behind her and Wesley. Picard, slamming his fist into his other palm, jumps for his command chair as: PICARD Picard. Go ahead. SECURITY VOICE Ship's sensors have detected the presence of a vessel approaching this planet. No ship is scheduled to arrive at this time. PICARD Have Mister Riker, and his team beamed back up! Security, could that be the Hood returning here? SECURITY VOICE The vessel does not match the Hood's configuration or I.D. signal. PICARD Put it on main viewer! 160 ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) Instantly, the image of a ship is flashed on the screen. It appears big, dark, ominous -- even at far range -- and it is approaching very swiftly. 161 ANGLE ON PICARD AND WORF PICARD Identification? SECURITY VOICE Vessel unknown, configuration unknown, sir. PICARD Hail it! WORF (works his panel) We've been trying, sir. No response. PICARD Raise all shields, phasers at ready. WORF (works panel) Shields up, sir. Phasers ready. (turns to Picard) Could this be that "Q" you mentioned, sir? 162 CLOSE ON PICARD staring at the viewscreen. PICARD I almost hope so, Lieutenant. We face too many "unknowns" already. 163 ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The ship is closer now -- looks menacing -- and still coming fast. FADE OUT. PART EIGHT FADE IN: 164 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise in orbit. 165 INT. BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE All bridge positions are filled now, everyone watching the viewscreen intently. 166 ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The mystery vessel approaching closer. 167 PICARD AND WORF PICARD Continue universal greeting on all frequencies. Get me Groppler Zorn. There is a BEEP, a pause, then: ZORN'S VOICE This is Zorn, Captain. 168 INT. ZORN'S OFFICE - DAY - ON ZORN He is seated at the desk, speaks into a small portable communicator grid shaped to fit the palm of his hand. PICARD'S VOICE There is an unidentified vessel moving into orbit with us. Do you know who it is? 169 INTERCUT BETWEEN ZORN AND PICARD AS NEEDED. ZORN There are no ships scheduled to arrive until -- PICARD I asked if you know who it is, Groppler. You mentioned the Ferengi Alliance to me. 169 CONTINUED: ZORN (very nervous) But we have had no dealings with them. It was only a... a thought. PICARD Are you very, very certain of that, Groppler? ZORN I promise you we were making an empty threat, Captain. I wanted your cooperation. Forgive me -- WORF Definitely entering an orbital trajectory, sir. SECURITY POSITION It measures half again our size, Captain. 170 EXT. SPACE - ANGLE ON MYSTERY VESSEL/ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The mystery vessel approaches and settles into geosynchronous orbit. It is positioned slightly above and to the side of the Enterprise -- and it is a great deal larger than the Enterprise. Suddenly, A GLOWING PULSE OF LIGHT throbs out from the mystery vessel toward the Enterprise. 171 INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - FULL SHOT The LIGHT GLOWS OVER EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE ON THE BRIDGE. They are startled by it, but no one is hurt. As the GLOW FADES AWAY: PICARD All stations, give any damage reports. The others are looking at each other, shaking their heads. No problems. WORF I would guess we were being scanned, sir. 172 INT. UNDERGROUND PASSAGEWAY Troi is leaning against the strange, smooth and shining tunnel wall as if still feeling pain. Riker, obviously still concerned for Troi, is examining the strange tunnel walls with the tricorder while Geordi moves his "eyes" inches away from the surface to examine it closely. Data is testing his communicator and we'll HEAR him trying to get a signal back from the Enterprise. TASHA (to Troi) Pain again? RIKER (turning; sharply) Troi, you've been at it enough! TROI No, I feel close to an answer of some kind. DATA (interrupting) Commander, something down here is shielding our communicators. TROI (comes to her feet) Yes, that's exactly the feeling I've been reading. As if someone doesn't want us to be in touch with our ship. RIKER Come on... (leads the way) ... let's get to the surface. 173 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND MYSTERY VESSEL (OPTICAL) The mystery vessel clearly larger than the Enterprise and moving near it in orbit. 174 INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) On which is featured an IMAGE OF MYSTERY VESSEL. OPERATIONS POSITION There is no computer record of any such vessel, sir. Not even close. 174 CONTINUED: SECURITY POSITION Still no response, sir. We've done everything but threaten them. PICARD Sensor scans, Mister Worf. WORF Our sensor signals seem to just bounce off. (bites off words; indicates to viewer) Something's happening, sir... 175 FULL ON MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) As a beam of something STRIKES DOWNWARD TOWARD THE PLANET SURFACE. (It doesn't look exactly like the Enterprise phasers but is the same sort of thing.) 176 EXT. SPACE - ANGLE ON MYSTERY VESSEL (OPTICAL) As another phaser-like BEAM STRIKES DOWN AT THE PLANET. 177 INT. BRIDGE Excitement. 178 ANGLE ON OPS POSITION WORF They're firing on Farpoint, sir... ! PICARD (toward Security position) Bring phasers and photon torpedoes to ready! WORF No, hold it, sir. They're hitting the Bandi city, not Farpoint Station. 179 INT. UNDERGROUND PASSAGEWAY Riker and his team racing to where the rounded, smooth and shining walls of the tunnel begin to give way to a more ordinary looking rectangular corridor of mixed stone and tile walls. 180 ANOTHER ANGLE - INCLUDING STAIRWAY AHEAD Riker pulling to a halt in order to examine with curiosity the blend where the unknown type tunnel walls give way to stone and tile construction similar to what we've seen in the old Bandi city. Ahead is a stone block stairway leading up to that old city. Geordi has hurried in, peering closely at the more familiar kind of wall surface. TROI (indicates ahead) Those stairs are where Tasha and I entered down here, sir. GEORDI At this point, it becomes ordinary stone and tile, sir. (turns, puzzled) Matching what's above. Followed by a LONG RUMBLING EXPLOSION ("PHASER HIT" type) WITH THE LONG FLASH OF IT REFLECTING DOWN THE STAIRWAY FROM THE UPPER LEVEL AHEAD. As this SOUND FADES, then we HEAR A FAINT DISTANT SCREAM which dies away too. TASHA My God! Was that a phaser blast? DATA Negative. But something similar. Again, the SAME KIND OF EXPLOSION SOUND followed by similar LIGHT FLICKERS from the stairway ahead. Riker turns to Troi: RIKER You, Tasha, and Geordi will beam up to the ship from here. Now! (to Data) Come on, I want to see exactly what's happening. Riker starts off to the stairway, Data following. TROI Don't. If you should be hurt... A stern look comes over Riker's face as he turns quickly to her: RIKER You have your orders, Counselor! Carry them out! 180 CONTINUED: TROI Yes sir, I'm sorry, sir. 181 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) Riker and Data begin climbing the stairway, leaving the CAMERA CENTERED ON TROI, TASHA AND GEORDI. Troi has already reached for her communicator control. TROI Enterprise, three to beam up. After a moment, the familiar TRANSPORTER SOUND, followed by TRANSPORTER EFFECT ON THE THREE DISSOLVING INTO THE LIGHT SPARKLE. Then, they're gone. 182 INT. COVERED VILLAGE SQUARE (OPTICAL) OLD CITY IN IN B.G. where FIRE RAGES in a smashed structure in that part of the old city we can see. In CLOSER FOREGROUND is an entrance to the underground passageway, this entry guarded by thick, hand-worked metal door, locked. This village square is a connecting point between the Old City and Farpoint Station. A short distance in the OFF-CAMERA DIRECTION lies Farpoint Mall. 183 THE METAL DOORS (OPTICAL) We HEAR a hand phaser HUM as a GLOW FLICKERS OVER THE METAL DOORS which now spring open and a CLASHING OF METAL SOUND. Riker and Data ENTER SCENE though those door, phasers in hand. 184 CLOSER - RIKER AND DATA As Riker touches his communicator control. RIKER Enterprise, Riker. Come in. 0T INTERRUPTED BY THE CLOSER SOUND OF A PHASER-LIKE BOLT FROM THE MYSTERY VESSEL. Also from closer, THE LIGHT OF THE BLAST REFLECTS ON THEIR FACES and they whirl to see: 186 ANGLE INTO OLD CITY Where a building is being BLASTED INTO STONES AND DUST. 187 INT. ZORN'S OFFICE - OLD CITY Filled with the dust and SOUNDS of a nearby BLAST. Zorn is working frantically with his communicator. ZORN Enterprise, Enterprise, help us! Come in, please... 188 INT. BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE (OPTICAL) On MAIN VIEWER THE IMAGE OF THE mystery vessel which as we watch will FIRE ANOTHER PHASER-LIKE BOLT DOWN TOWARD THE PLANET. The bridge crew are anxiously poised on the edge of their seats, waiting for Picard's next order. ZORN'S VOICE ... what shall we do? Help us, please. PICARD (overlapping) Tune him down! (into transmitter) Commander Riker, go ahead. Where are you? 189 ANOTHER ANGLE - INCLUDING TURBOLIFT As the doors SNAP OPEN TO REVEAL TROI, TASHA, AND GEORDI who hurry onto the bridge, take their regular positions (Geordi relieving Ops). Meanwhile: RIKER'S VOICE With Data, on the edge of the old city, Captain. It's being hit hard. Who's doing this? PICARD And Farpoint Station? Any damage there? 190 INT. COVERED VILLAGE SQUARE - FARPOINT MALL IN B.G. No indication that Farpoint Station has been damaged at all. Riker, standing with Data, is using his communicator. 190 CONTINUED: RIKER Negative on damage to Farpoint, sir. Whoever they are, it seems they're carefully avoiding hitting the station. PICARD'S VOICE It's from an unidentified vessel that's entered orbit with us here. No ID, no answer to our signals... During which there's another BLAST SOUND with the same kind of LIGHT FLICKERS. 191 ANGLE INCLUDING OLD CITY As Riker whirls again in that direction, interrupting Picard: RIKER They're hitting the Bandi city hard, sir. Many casualties very probable. 192 INT. BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING PICARD Everything as we last left it. PICARD (into transmitter) Understand, Commander. Would you object to a clearly illegal kidnapping assignment? RIKER'S VOICE No objection; anything you order, sir. PICARD Zorn may have the answers we need. Get Groppler Zorn and bring him here! RIKER'S VOICE Aye, sir! 193 ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) Picard looks at the IMAGE of the huge mystery vessel still in orbit nearby. Picard turns to Troi: 193 CONTINUED: PICARD They're forcing a difficult decision on me, Counselor. TROI (nods) But, I doubt protecting the Bandi would violate the Prime Directive. True, they are not actual allies... PICARD But we are in the midst of diplomatic discussions with them. (turns to Tasha) Lock phasers on that vessel, Lieutenant. 194 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) In b.g., Tasha touching panel controls. TASHA Phasers locked on, Captain. Anything further INTERRUPTED BY OPTICAL EFFECT, the BLINDING LIGHT FLASH we've seen before and FADING TO REVEAL "Q", wearing the Judge's costume from the earlier courtroom sequence. He is standing in front of Picard. "Q" (JUDGE) Typical, so typical. Savage lifeforms never follow even their own rules. FADE OUT. PART NINE FADE IN: 195 EXT. BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING PICARD AND "Q" Rather than being nervous over the arrival of "Q" (JUDGE), Picard has become coldly angry. PICARD Get off my bridge! 196 ANOTHER ANGLE "Q" stepping toward Picard, smiling sadly. "Q" (JUDGE) Also interesting, that order about phasers. TASHA (ignoring "Q"; to Picard) Still standing by on phasers, Captain. "Q" (JUDGE) (turning to Picard) Please don't let me interfere. Use your weapons. PICARD You're the one who has a lot to learn, "Q". With no idea of who's on that vessel, my order was a routine safety precaution. "Q" (JUDGE) (breaking into LAUGHTER) Really? No idea of what it represents? The meaning of that vessel is as plain as... (then taps his nose) ... as plain as the noses on your ugly little primate faces. 196 CONTINUED: LOUDER LAUGHTER. "Q" (JUDGE) (trying to control it) And if you were truly civilized, Captain, wouldn't you be doing something about the casualties happening down there? In answer, Picard touches the communications control on his uniform. PICARD Captain to CMO, are you reading any of this? 197 INT. SICKBAY - ANGLE EMPHASIZING BEVERLY But she's with a half dozen MEDICAL ASSISTANTS very busy preparing medical supplies, bringing portable medical equipment, etc. BEVERLY Medical teams already preparing to beam down, Captain. PICARD'S VOICE (relieved) Compliments on that, Doctor! 198 INT. BRIDGE Picard turning back to "Q". PICARD Any questions? Starfleet people are trained to render aid and assistance whenever... "Q" (JUDGE) (interrupting) But not trained in clear thinking. PICARD Let's consider your thoughts. You call us "savages" and yet you knew those people down there would be killed. You're the one whose conduct is uncivilized. WORF Sir, they're firing on the planet again. 199 ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) Where we SEE the mystery vessel beginning to FIRE BLASTS down at the planet again. PICARD Forcefields full on. (to Worf) Go to thrusters! Position us between that vessel and the planet. WORF Aye, sir, thruster power to... Worf trails his words, perplexed. His panel is fading, GOING DARK. WORF (continuing) We have no ship control, sir. It's gone! 200 INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE ZORN'S OFFICE - DAY - RIKER AND DATA They are headed toward Zorn's office door when the BLUE BOLT HITS beside the door, flooding the scene with a FLASH OF BLUE LIGHT. The corridor rocks, and the ceiling comes down partially. Riker and Data are flung down by the explosion. A beat, and then Data stirs, sits up. Riker is slower, but is managing to haul himself upright. DATA Are you undamaged? RIKER Yes. You? Data's eyes glaze slightly as he seems to go into a sort of "trance" that lasts just a few seconds. Then: DATA All systems operating. 201 ANGLE INCLUDING ZORN'S OFFICE DOOR It is hanging by its hinges, and debris-dust is drifting out of it. Riker and Data move quickly to and through the open door. 202 INT. ZORN'S OFFICE - DAY - FULL SHOT As Riker and Data ENTER. The office has been badly damaged, especially near the door. O.S. THE SOUND OF ANOTHER BOLT EXPLODING echoes. The room shakes under the impact. There is a MUFFLED SOB near the desk. 203 CLOSER ANGLE - NEAR DESK Zorn is cowering under his elegant desk, shaking and sobbing in fear. ZORN Please. You can make it stop. Drive it away. RIKER Drive who away, Groppler? Zorn reacts as if he knows he's said too much. ZORN I don't know. DATA Unlikely, sir. (to Zorn) Our records show that you supervised all Bandi contact with other worlds... ZORN We haven't done anything wrong! RIKER Then if we can learn nothing from you, perhaps we'll leave. ZORN (frightened) No! No, don't leave, I'll try to explain some of... 204 EMPHASIZING ZORN (OPTICAL) A kind of TRANSPORTER SOUND is heard, and then a TRANSPORTER EFFECT, somewhat different from the Starfleet variety, centers on Zorn. He beging SCREAMING as he FADES FROM VIEW. 205 ANGLE ON RIKER As he keys his communicator. 205 CONTINUED: RIKER First officer to Enterprise. PICARD'S VOICE Go ahead, Riker. RIKER We've lost Zorn, sir. Something like a transporter beam, it snatched him out of here. 206 INT. BRIDGE "Q" still in the captain's seat, listening to: RIKER'S VOICE Question, sir, could it have been the "Q" character you met earlier. "Q" (JUDGE) (laughs) None of you know who it is? You're running out of time, Captain. 207 ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD AND TROI She's frowning, trying to 'feel' something. TROI Captain... Suddenly I'm sensing something else. It's satisfaction, enormous satisfaction. PICARD From the same source as before? TROI No, that was on the planet. (indicates) This seems to be from here. 208 ANGLE TO INCLUDE MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) And the image of the mystery vessel. 208 CONTINUED: "Q" (JUDGE) (to Troi) Excellent, Counselor! (indicates Picard) He's such a dullard, isn't he! INTERCOM VOICE Captain from Transporter Room. First officer and Mister Data now beaming aboard. "Q" (JUDGE) Excellent also! (to Picard) Perhaps with more of these little minds helping, you'll... 209 EMPHASIZING PICARD As he whirls suddenly on "Q". PICARD (interrupting) That is enough, damn it! "Q" (JUDGE) We have an agreement; have you forgotten... ? In b.g., the turbolift doors SNAP OPEN but unnoticed by Picard and "Q" as they continue their argument. Riker and Data appear, move onto bridge as: PICARD We have an agreement which you are at this moment breaking by taking over our vessel, interfering with my decisions! (steps up nose-to-nose) You are not welcome on my bridge. Now, either leave or finish us. One of the two! "Q" stands, during which we have the impression that everyone is holding his breath. Then: "Q" (JUDGE) (gently) Temper, temper, mon capitaine. I am merely trying to assist a pitiful species. Perhaps I'll leave if Mister Riker provides me with some amusement. 209 CONTINUED: PICARD (to Riker) Do nothing that he asks! "Q" (JUDGE) But I ask so little. And it is so necessary if you are to solve all this. (turns; indicates vessel image in Main Viewer) Beam over there with your... what is it called... your "away team"? (to Picard) You should already know what you'll find there. But perhaps it was too adult a puzzle for you. RIKER Captain, with all respect, I intended to suggest beaming over there. 210 EMPHASIZING "Q" (OPTICAL) Amused at all this. He turns from Riker to look at Picard. "Q" (JUDGE) You show promise, my good fellow. PICARD But you don't. You should have long ago realized that, humanity is NOT a criminal race! "Q" (JUDGE) YOU MUST STILL PROVE THAT! A familiar BLINDING FLASH, and then "Q" is gone. 211 ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD AND RIKER Realizing "Q" is gone, turning to look at each other. Riker checks a reading on his panel. RIKER Of the 24 hours "Q" gave us, we have less than one left, sir. 211 CONTINUED: PICARD (nods) But I had a feeling you impressed him, Number One. That's hopeful. RIKER Thank you, Captain, That's the first time you've called me "Number One". PICARD (small smile) I believe I'll enjoy getting to know you, Bill. If we live long enough. FADE OUT. PART TEN FADE IN: 212 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND MYSTERY VESSEL (OPTICAL) In orbit over the planet. 213 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM Riker's away team moving onto the transporter platform. With him are Data, Troi, and Tasha. They carry the usual away team equipment which they're now checking. RIKER Phasers on stun. Everyone checks hand phasers. AD-LIB answers of "checked", "on stun," etc. Riker turns to Transporter Chief. RIKER Energize. 214 INT. MYSTERY SHIP TUNNEL - WIDE ANGLE (OPTICAL) TRANSPORTER SOUND, then the BEAMING EFFECT. Then, fully MATERIALIZED, Riker and the others look around to orient themselves. DATA Most interesting, sir. TASHA Much the same construction as the underground tunnel we saw. Which describes it perfectly. The same rounded shape and GLOWING WALL of unknown composition. The "tunnel" is deserted; NO SHIP SOUNDS of any kind. TASHA (continuing) But no sound of power; no equipment. How does this ship run? Riker nods a direction. Tasha takes the point as they move out. Clearly, these are exceptionally well trained people. Data is already using his tricorder to check the walls. He obviously gets nothing, shakes his head. Troi suddenly staggers, GROANS. 214 CONTINUED: RIKER Troi, what is it?! (waits anxiously) Is it the same as you felt down there? TROI No, this is... different. It feels much more powerful... full of anger... hate... TASHA Toward us? TROI No. It's directed down toward the old Bandi city. DATA Most intriguing again. The place that this vessel was firing upon... (abruptly stops; to Riker) Sorry, sir, I seem to be commenting on everything. RIKER (small smile) Good. Don't stop it, my friend. 215 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) Enterprise and the mystery vessel still in orbit. 216 INT. BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING PICARD Geordi and Worf at their positions. Picard is in the command seat, antsy. RIKER'S VOICE Enterprise, Riker. This is turning out to be a very long tunnel or corridor, sir. Still no sign of mechanism or circuitry... 217 INT. NARROW MYSTERY SHIP TUNNEL - RIKER AND GROUP Still led and followed by the security people, they're now moving along fairly rapidly although this tunnel is narrower here. Otherwise, its look hasn't changed. RIKER (continuing) ... or controls, readouts, nothing at all like any vessel I've seen before. TROI (interrupting) Groppler Zorn, sir... in great fear... (motions) Just ahead. 218 INT. TUNNEL CONNECTION Troi and the team arriving, standing puzzled at what seems to be only a sharp turn where we SEE a strange indentation in the tunnel wall there. Troi, intent on this, steps closer, pushes her body against the indentation. TROI It's definitely Zorn, Commander. Here! RIKER (stepping in) Careful... But the tunnel wall is soft here -- it gives perceptibly, as Troi pushes harder and then PLOP... she disappears through it. (NOTE: Or the 'wall' opens to let her through and then closes behind her.) RIKER Troi!!! Then he pushes, disappears through the same wall. 219 INT. ZORN'S "CELL" Riker sliding through the pliable opening in the tunnel wall, joining Troi who is standing there aghast at what is suspended in the center of this area. 220 ANGLE AT FORCE FIELD (OPTICAL) Zorn is held suspended off the deck in the center of a cylindrical forcefield. The force field edges GLITTER SOFTLY to outline the shape of it. 221 ANGLE ON THE AWAY TEAM (OPTICAL) As the other team members come through the 'wall' too, stand, reacting at the sight of Zorn. 222 ANGLE AT FORCE FIELD (OPTICAL) The FORCEFIELD SPARKLES, CLICKS, causing Zorn to writhe and twitch. He SCREAMS. ZORN No! Please! No more! Please, no more... 223 ANGLE ON AWAY TEAM (OPTICAL) They move forward toward him, and are brought up sharply by the leading edge of the force field. Data has already started to scan with his tricorder. Riker calls to Zorn. RIKER (continuing) Zorn. Can you hear me? Zorn manages to lift his head, and WE SEE his pain-filled face, his features twisted into a grimace of intense agony. ZORN Make it stop the pain. Please... TROI Has the alien communicated... ? (breaks off; then to Riker) That's it, sir! It's just one alien that I'm sensing here. ZORN (another GROAN) Please! I don't understand what it wants. TROI (studying Zorn; then) Not true. He does know. 223 CONTINUED: Data interrupts by holding his tricorder so that Riker can see the readings he's gathered. Riker registers at seeing something unique as Data pulls out his phaser, Riker does the same and both of them concentrate on making some exact setting on their phasers. 224 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) As Data and Riker raise their phasers toward Zorn. ZORN (in terror) No, no, please don't! Data and Riker trigger their phasers and we SEE a SORT OF COLORED GLOW on the FORCEFIELD HOLDING Zorn, the GLOW SPREADING OVER THE ENTIRE FORCEFIELD. Then, suddenly the FORCEFIELD DISAPPEARS, GLOW AND ALL, and Zorn tumbles out onto the floor free of restraint. 225 EMPHASIZING "LIVE" PART OF CELL WALL (EFFECTS) Where the wall seems to be "alive", undulating. Beyond it, Tasha is assisting Zorn to his feet, supporting him. Meanwhile, Troi looks around Zorn's "cell", sensing something troubling. Riker has turned on his communicator: RIKER Away team to Enterprise... A TENDRIL OF PLASMA EMERGES FROM THIS PART OF THE WALL, swaying and moving toward Troi. DATA (interrupting; warning) Troi... ! But the TENDRIL is already wrapping around her. Data tries to pull the TENDRIL from Troi, succeeds only in getting a NEW TENDRIL wrapped around himself. 226 ANOTHER ANGLE (EFFECTS) The floor of the area suddenly going soft, away team members sinking into it while still ANOTHER SECTION OF WALL FOLDS ITSELF OVER TASHA. (What we're seeing is this part of the mystery "vessel" becoming a living thing.) 226 CONTINUED: RIKER Enterprise, come in. Beam us... Interrupted as his feet are YANKED OUT FROM UNDER HIM. DATA Enterprise, we need help... Interrupted by the NEW TENDRIL WRAPPING ITSELF AROUND HIS HEAD. 227 INT. BRIDGE Picard speaking anxiously toward his command panel as we HEAR Riker's MUFFLED SOUNDS OF DISTRESS. PICARD Transporter chief, yank them back! Now! WORF Captain... ! 228 ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) Toward which Lieutenant Worf is pointing. On it the IMAGE of the mystery vessel is BEGINNING TO CHANGE IN SHAPE. The firm, hard edges of the spaceship are giving way to something softer, very mysterious in nature. 229 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) In which we SEE a familiar BLINDING FLASH and "Q" appears, now wearing the uniform of a STARFLEET CAPTAIN. "Q" (STARFLEET) Your time is up, Captain. PICARD Get off my bridge! (into command panel) Transporter Chief, do you have their coordinates? 230 ANOTHER ANGLE (EFFECTS) "Q" stepping to the command position. "Q" (STARFLEET) He can't hear you, Captain. 230 CONTINUED: "Q" gestures upward, at which Picard is suddenly lifted into the air and then to the side of "Q"'s hand motion in that direction. PICARD "Q", I've people in trouble over there... ! As Picard hovers above, "Q" steps up and sits in Picard's command position. Bridge personnel are coming to their feet angrily, then hesitate as: PICARD (continuing) Everyone, at ease! That's an order! (to "Q") My people are in trouble, "Q". Help them; I'll do whatever you say... As "Q" gives another hand signal downward, the Captain is gently deposited onto the deck. 231 WIDE PORTION OF BRIDGE (OPTICAL) As the same strange transporter SOUND that accompanied Zorn's "kidnapping" is heard and the same STRANGE TRANSPORTER EFFECT APPEARS, this time MATERIALIZING FIVE IMAGES -- Riker, Data, Troi, Tasha, and Groppler Zorn. 232 ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD Very surprised, looking from his away team to "Q". "Q" (STARFLEET) You'll do whatever I say? PICARD (hesitates; nods) It seems I did make that bargain. TROI The agreement isn't valid, sir. It wasn't "Q" that saved us. "Q" (STARFLEET) (quickly; indicating viewer) Save yourselves! It may attack you now. 233 ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) On which the changed IMAGE of the mystery "vessel" seems to be floating in closer to the Enterprise. RIKER It was that which sent us back, Captain. TROI Yes sir. It's not a vessel, sir. It's alive somehow... "Q" (STARFLEET) She lies! Destroy it while you have a chance. (to Tasha) Make phasers and photon torpedoes ready... ! PICARD No! Do nothing he suggests! ZORN But that thing was killing my people, Captain... PICARD True, but why? Was there a reason? "Q" (STARFLEET) It is an unknown, Captain! Isn't that enough? PICARD If you had earned that uniform you're wearing, you'd know that the unknown is what brings us out here! "Q" (STARFLEET) Wasted effort, considering the human intelligence. PICARD Let's test that... (to Zorn) ... starting with the tunnels you have under Farpoint, Groppler. RIKER Identical to the ones on that space vessel lifeform, over there. Why was it punishing you, Groppler? 233 CONTINUED: PICARD In return for pain you caused to some other creature? ZORN We did nothing wrong! It was injured, we helped it... PICARD (interrupting; to Zorn) Thank you, that was the missing part. (turns) Tasha, rig phasers to deliver an energy beam. TASHA (puzzled) Aye, sir. Tasha steps to her panel, makes settings on controls there. RIKER Yes, Captain, I understand now. It has to be conceivable that somewhere in the galaxy there could exist creatures able to convert energy into matter... PICARD (nodding) And into specific patterns of matter. Much as our transporters do. TASHA (indicating) On the viewer, Captain! 234 ANGLE EMPHASIZING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) Where the vessel/creature IMAGE is SOFTENING FURTHER INTO AN AMORPHOUS, COLORFUL AND LOVELY SHAPE. Picard turns to the Groppler, demanding: PICARD Zorn, you captured something like that, didn't you? On main viewer, the IMAGE NOW SHOWS LOVELY FEATHERY TENDRILS, and it is BEGINNING TO MOVE DOWN TOWARD THE PLANET. Zorn reacts to this, shows panic. 234 CONTINUED: ZORN Warn my people, please! Leave Farpoint Station immediately! "Q" (STARFLEET) He's lied to you, Captain. Shouldn't you let his people die? PICARD (nods to Ops) Transmit the message. "Leave Farpoint immediately". TROI Then it was a pair of creatures I was sensing. One down there in grief and pain, the other up here, filled with anger... DATA (nodding) And firing not on the new space station, but on the old Bandi city. PICARD (to "Q") Attacking those who captured it's... (to Troi) ... it's mate? TASHA Energy beam ready, sir. PICARD (to Tasha) Lock it in on Farpoint Station. "Q" stands in an annoyed manner, indicates the captain's position to Picard. "Q" (STARFLEET) I see now it was too simple a puzzle. But generosity has always been my weakness. As "Q" moves aside, Picard takes his position, turning to Tasha. PICARD Let it have whatever it can absorb. Energize! 235 EXT SPACE - THE ENTERRPISE (OPTICAL) in orbit, as a THICK, PALE BLUE ENERGY BEAM AIMS DOWNWARD. 236 EXT. FARPOINT STATION (OPTICAL) HIGH DOWNWARD SHOT SHOWING THE ENERGY BEAM terminating and being absorbed into Farpoint Station. 237 INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) Picard and others watching the energy beam terminating at Farpoint Station. TASHA Now getting feedback on the beam, sir. PICARD Discontinue it. (to Zorn) Groppler Zorn, there'll soon be no Farpoint Station if I'm right about this. "Q" (STARFLEET) A lucky guess! ZORN I know we deserve this loss, but please believe me, we meant not to harm the creature, but to use it. TROI Sir, a feeling of great joy. And gratitude. 238 EXT. FARPOINT STATION (OPTICAL) The city/station miniature -- the Farpoint Station part of it GROWING SOFT, SHIMMERING, SLOWLY BECOMES A CREATURE OF GOSSAMER, FEATHERY LIGHTNESS -- now gracefully rising up from its captivity. 239 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) Where what was once the "mystery vessel" but now an increasingly beautiful COLORFUL, FEATHERY TENDRIL SHAPE is descending closer and closer to what was once the Farpoint Station part of city/station (miniature). 239 CONTINUED: THE TWO CREATURES (OPTICAL) The smaller one rising up toward its mate. They touch -- delicate matter/energy tendrils twining -- and then together they move upwards out of sight. 240 EXT SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) As the two creatures rise up past it. 241 INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) On which the two creatures are rising upward OUT OF IMAGE FRAME. TROI Great joy and gratitude... from both of them. 242 ANGLE EMPHASIZING "Q" (OPTICAL) As Picard turns on him. PICARD And why? Because it furnishes entertainment to you! You use other lifeforms for recreation. "Q" (STARFLEET) If so, you've not provided the best... PICARD Get off my ship, you smug hypocrite. "Q" (STARFLEET) Why not? We can also meet another time, another place. PICARD That's doesn't frighten us at all! You accuse us of "grievous savagery"? No, the one proven guilty of that crime is you! 242 CONTINUED: ANOTHER BLINDING FLASH AND "Q" DISAPPEARS. It takes a moment to realize that he is gone. Then: RIKER I trust this isn't the usual way our missions will go, sir. Picard screws up his face in mock consideration of this, then nods. PICARD On no, Number One, I'm sure they'll be much more interesting. FADE OUT. THE END